Teamsters Urge Senate To Pass Jobs Bill

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International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Oct 11, 2011, 03:49 ET

Hoffa Says Congress Must Put Politics Aside, Help Put Americans to Work

WASHINGTON, Oct. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa urged Congress to do its job and help put Americans back to work by voting today to move forward with debate on President Obama's jobs bill in the Senate and ultimately passing it.

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"American workers can't afford any more political games in Congress," Hoffa said. "The jobs crisis isn't a Republican problem or a Democratic problem. It is time for both sides to come together to help put Americans back to work for the good of our country."

A wide range of economists agree that Obama's jobs plan, the "American Jobs Act," will prevent a double-dip recession by increasing economic growth and creating thousands of new jobs. It calls for cutting payroll taxes paid by workers and small businesses while extending unemployment benefits. It includes an increase in federal spending to help build and repair roads, schools and bridges. The bill also would provide financial aid to cash-strapped state governments to pay for teachers and first responders.

"Doing nothing is not an option," Hoffa said. "Americans demand action to get our country back on track. This plan is the right course. It will increase economic activity and generate more tax revenue. That's how you fix the deficit and put Americans back to work."

Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information.

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters