January 26, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today made the following statement regarding the December report that showed a 9.1 percent unemployment rate in Nevada – the highest rate in Nevada in 25 years:

"This report is shocking and deeply saddening. These aren't just lost jobs – they're lost meals, lost houses, lost health care, lost savings and lost dignity for Nevadans. More Nevadans filed for unemployment in December than in any previous month in our state's history, and a reality in which nearly 1 out of every 10 Nevadans is out of a job is unacceptable.

"We have to act decisively right now to change this. Nevada's urgent need for an economic recovery package could not be any clearer. The package we are working in Congress to pass will bring jobs to Nevada as soon as possible. We must set aside any differences we have to bring real help to American families immediately, and that's exactly what I am doing in the Senate right now. Nothing is receiving higher priority than putting Nevadans back to work, and helping them stay in their houses and feed their families.

"We are weathering some of the worst economic times I've seen in our state, and while they are testing the resolve of each of our families, I have no doubt we will meet our challenges. Our state is tough and resilient, and I will work in that spirit to create solutions that will lead us to better days."

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