While right wing anti-Obama wags are trying to stir up hate and discontent about the First Lady's vacation, the President is at work today on a $26 billion jobs bill which should save over 140,000 to 160,000 jobs for teachers, police and firefighters:
Quote:
Standing in the Rose Garden with two teachers facing job loss by his side, President Obama Tuesday urged Congress to pass a multi-billion dollar state aid bill that aims to prevent thousands of impending teacher and local government worker layoffs. "We can't stand by and do nothing while the pink slips are given to men and women who educate our children or keep our communities safe," said Obama, who noted that states were among the hardest hit by the recession.
With a new school year just around the corner, Democrats say the bill will save an estimated 140,000 teaching jobs. The bill will give $10 billion to prevent teacher, police officer, firefighter, and other private sector and local government job layoffs. It also includes $16 billion to help states fund their Medicaid payments. Obama said the bill is fully paid for by closing tax loopholes that encourage corporations to send American jobs overseas and if passed in the House today, he will sign the measure quickly.
Obama warded off criticism that passing the bill caters to teacher unions and other advocacy groups whose support is critical for Democrats heading into the November midterms. "I suppose if America's children and the safety of our communities are your special interests, then it is a special interest bill," Obama said.
The measure passed in the Senate last Thursday, after the House had already adjourned for summer recess. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called members back to Washington from break, a valuable campaigning time for members during election season, for an in and out vote on the measure.
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Source:
US News and World Report
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