For Immediate Release
February 13, 2009

Washington, D.C. - With the country facing economic conditions not seen since the Great Depression, Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA-03) has voted for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  When fully implemented, the legislation is expected to save or create 4 million jobs.  President Obama is expected to quickly sign the bill into law.

Congressman Baird has long championed that any stimulus spending include major investments in infrastructure.   The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes almost 750 million dollars in such spending for Washington state.

In response to the vote, Congressman Baird released the following statement:

"Our economy is in a freefall and this bill, while not perfect, provides a much needed parachute.  We are seeing 100,000 jobs a week disappear and we are dealing with the most disastrous economic conditions since the Great Depression.  Doing nothing wasn't an option. We have to get people back to work, and this legislation takes major steps to ensure that happens.

I have long advocated that any recovery package include major investments in infrastructure and renewable energy.  From roads, to schools, to waste water treatment plants, there is plenty of work to be done in Southwest Washington, and there are plenty of people willing to work.   This legislation provides the money necessary to get those projects moving.  We are borrowing this money from our children, and we need to make sure they get something for their investment.   

Yet, it's important for us to remember that this bill will not solve all of our problems. Our economy will remain in a very fragile state.  The conditions created by excessive debt on both the federal and personal level, our rising trade deficit, and the rising costs of energy all suggest that we will face painful economic times for some time to come."

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