“While today’s numbers offer a glimmer of hope that this recession is starting to slow down, there are still far too many Americans who are out of work and struggling to find employment.  That’s why President Obama’s proposal to allow workers receiving unemployment benefits to remain eligible for education and job training programs is a critical step to protect workers and help get them back on their feet.  By giving unemployed workers the opportunity to attend colleges, technical schools, and other training programs, we will be preparing them not just to find another job, but also to succeed in today’s global economy.

 

“These proposals announced today build upon the groundwork laid by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act passed by Congress earlier this year.  We are already seeing signs that this is having a positive effect, with projects started and jobs created across the country.  The budget that was passed also contains crucial investments for long-term economic recovery and growth, with clean-energy jobs, health care reform, and education reform all part of that effort.

 

“Helping Americans through this recession is Democrats’ top priority, and we will remain focused on doing all we can to turn this economy around and get Americans back to work.”