Overview of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act)
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is an effort to jumpstart our economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. With much at stake, the Act provides for unprecedented levels of transparency and accountability so that you will be able to know how, when, and where your tax dollars are being spent. Spearheaded by a new Recovery Board, this Act contains built-in measures to root out waste, inefficiency, and unnecessary spending.
Implementing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act)
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 includes approximately $7.4 billion in Defense-related appropriations, which accounts for less than 1 percent of the total $787 billion stimulus package signed on February 17 by President Obama. The Department of Defense (DoD) intends to spend this funding with full transparency and accountability.
As stated on recovery.gov, the purpose of the Recovery Act is to create and save jobs, jumpstart our economy, and build the foundation for long-term economic growth. In order to fulfill these objectives, the DoD intends to spend Defense-related funds as quickly as possible.
- $4.2 billion in Operation and Maintenance accounts to upgrade DoD facilities, including energy-related improvements
- $1.3 billion in military construction for hospitals
- $240 million in military construction for child development centers
- $100 million in military construction for warrior transition complexes
- $600 million for other military constructions projects such as housing for the troops and their families
- $300 million to develop energy-efficient technologies
- $120 million for the Energy Conservation Investment Program (ECIP)
- $555 million for a temporary expansion of the Homeowner’s Assistance Program (HAP) benefits for private home sale losses of both DoD military and civilian personnel
- $15 million for DoD Inspector General oversight and audit of Recovery Act execution
Appropriations in this bill are available for obligation through the end of fiscal 2010, and through the end of fiscal 2013 for military construction.
The Recovery Act funding addresses some of the unique economic pressures faced by American service members because of their voluntary commitment to serve our nation. Specific investment in military construction will further President Obama’s goal of providing stimulus to the economy while helping to improve the quality of life for our troops and their families. In addition to providing much needed facility improvements, this bill also provides more funding for our important energy research programs so that the DoD can continue to lead the way in the national effort to achieve greater energy independence.
DoD officials are working with the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force to quickly finalize details such as which bases will receive construction projects. We intend spending
plans at the project level to be sent to Congress in the weeks ahead, with more announcements to be made as appropriate.
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