Majority Whip Clyburn : MajorityWhip.gov

House Approves Economic Stimulus Package

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today spoke in favor of legislation approved by the House of Representatives to stimulate the US economy. The bill passed today provides a recovery rebate to 117 million families, including 35 million families who work but make too little to pay income taxes and 13 million senior citizens. The broad-based stimulus package will provide tax relief of up to $600 per individual and $1,200 per married couple, plus an additional $300 per child. Following is Clyburn’s floor speech.

“Mister Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this economic stimulus package.

“And I commend the House Leadership on both sides of the aisle for their efforts in quickly getting this important legislation to the Floor. And while this bill may not be perfect, very few if any are, it will go a long way towards stimulating our economy while helping many Americans struggling to make ends meet.

“Mister Speaker, these are turbulent times for many working families. Unemployment numbers are up and the housing market is down. Energy costs are rising and stock values are falling. In short Mister Speaker, our economy is underperforming, and the American people are looking to us for leadership.

“This measure seeks to stimulate growth by helping businesses and workers. It extends tax rebates to 117 million families and offers write-offs to small businesses to assist them in the creation of much needed jobs.

“This legislation serves as an important first step towards moving our economy in a New Direction. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation. The American people are looking for a New Direction and this legislation provides just that.

“Thank you Mister Speaker, and I yield back the balance of my time.”