Gov. Gregoire repeats call to Congress to pass federal stimulus package

For Immediate Release: November 12, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today sent a letter to Congress urging its members to act swiftly on a second economic stimulus package to create jobs through the financing of ready-to-go public works and transportation projects. In addition, the governor called on Congress to assist families through �improved support programs related to health care, access to food and unemployment benefits.�

�As early as last March, when we saw the first signs of a national slowdown, I asked Congress to consider a stimulus package focused on ready-to-go infrastructure projects that would create good-paying jobs and make badly needed infrastructure improvements,� Gregoire said. �In light of the national economic crisis, I am expanding my request to include increased federal aid to improve and extend support programs.�

In Washington alone, there are infrastructure projects that would employ thousands of Washingtonians.

The support programs the governor proposes to boost include those related to unemployment insurance, food stamps and health care services. Washingtonians affected by the housing crisis would also be recipients of extended support services.

In her letter to the state�s congressional delegation, Gregoire wrote that �by acting on these proposals, we will jump-start programs that generate paychecks, not a single check, that rebuild our creaking infrastructure and make our economy stronger. As you continue to work out the details of the package in the days ahead, know that my staff and I stand ready to offer any assistance we can.�

The governor also announced the release of more than $300 million in federal funds to help stimulate the state�s economy through relief to distressed fishing communities, assistance to low-income households to help pay energy bills and provide jobs for home weatherization projects. The governor also signed an executive order to expedite the release of $200 million in federal housing funds for qualifying home construction projects.

The governor will introduce her economic stimulus proposal for the Legislature�s consideration prior to convening in January.