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Pelosi Floor Speech on the Jobs for Main Street Act

December 16, 2009

Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi spoke on the House floor today in support of H.R. 2847, the Jobs for Main Street Act, which passed by a vote of 217 to 212. Below are the Speaker's remarks as prepared for delivery.

"Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this legislation that will create and save jobs on America's Main Street.

"The work of this Congress began this year with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to create or save millions of jobs. And we will conclude the year with the Jobs for Main Street Act. Putting Americans back to work continues to be the number one priority of Democrats in Congress and of President Obama.

"I'd like to acknowledge the excellent leadership of the Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Mr. Obey, in bringing this bill to the floor today. I would also like to thank Chairmen Miller, Oberstar, and Rangel for their significant contributions to this legislation.

"This legislation brings jobs to Main Street by increasing credit for small businesses, rebuilding the infrastructure of America, and keeping police and fireman and teachers on the job.

"As we create jobs for Americans, we are doing so in a fiscally responsible way. These investments are fully paid for by redirecting TARP funds from Wall Street to Main Street.

"And for those hit hardest by the deep recession, this bill provides emergency relief: extending unemployment benefits, help with health benefits for those out of work, and protecting health coverage for millions through Medicaid.

"In short, this legislation creates jobs, helps meet the needs of those who are unemployed, and puts us America back on a path to prosperity.

"This legislation today is neither the first nor the last step in our economic recovery; it is another in a series of ongoing efforts to put Americans back to work. We will continue to work with our colleagues in the Senate until this becomes law. And I hope we can get it to President Obama's desk for his signature before the State of the Union.

"We will not stop until American businesses are hiring again and those who want to work can find jobs. Though complete recovery will not happen overnight, we are moving in the right direction.

"Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to come together today and support the Jobs for Main Street Act."