Congress Approves American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Bill Will Create 60,000 Jobs in Colorado, Strengthen the Economy and Invest in America's Future

Washington, DC - Tonight, the United States Senate passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conference report. United States Senator Michael Bennet voted in favor of the measure, which was approved by a vote of 60 to 38.

"American families are struggling. More than four million people have lost their jobs in the past year - over 1.1 million in the past two months alone. This recession is in its thirteenth month and its getting deeper, faster. We need bold and responsible action to turn our economy around.

"After weeks of debate and days of bipartisan negotiations, we came together tonight to enact an economic recovery plan that creates jobs, cuts taxes for American families and businesses, and lays the foundation for long-term economic growth.

"This plan provides Colorado with over $500 million for targeted investments in energy, education, and transportation that will help create jobs and grow our economy. It also provides millions of dollars in tax relief to middle-class Colorado families and gives tens of thousands of struggling students up to $2,500 dollars in assistance to put college within their reach.

"We have a very tough road ahead and our situation will not change overnight. We still face significant challenges in our housing and banking sectors that need to be addressed. But now, with the passage of this legislation, we can begin the difficult task of rebuilding our economy and putting America back to work."