Washington, D.C.- The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), in discussions with the Democratic Leadership, has offered two key proposals to be included as part of the Economic Stimulus package:  A Summer Jobs Program for all Americans, and a Small Business Equipment Depreciation Tax Program.

Congresswoman Carolyn C. Kilpatrick (D-MI), Chairwoman of the CBC, said that “As we look toward a timely, targeted, temporary solution to save the American economy, the Congressional Black Caucus offers two key programs: 

1. An aggressive Summer Jobs Program; and

2. Relief for small businesses through an equipment depreciation tax break.

These programs will provide immediate assistance to Americans struggling to pay their bills and sustain their families.  Small businesses will be afforded the opportunity to procure the equipment they so desperately need to compete in the marketplace. Both will provide an immediate boost to our struggling economy.”

“The CBC’s proposal would provide a focus on summer jobs for all Americans.  While traditional summer job programs target teenagers and young adults, the CBC’s initiative would encompass their parents as well as older adults. Meaningful mandates under current law for job training programs include adult education and literacy, welfare-to-work, vocational education and vocational rehabilitation.”

“Operating within an 18-month purchase window, small businesses who make purchases designed to improve the quality of services rendered and to ensure their improvements would be eligible for tax write offs.  This would immediately allow a much needed break to small businesses, who are the largest employer of Americans.”

“We want to focus on securing employment for Americans and providing business tax relief.  These two provisions are timely, targeted, temporary and are already in law.  Congress must provide enough funding to support these programs.  The Summer Jobs Program and Small Business Equipment tax relief must be included in any stimulus program,” said Chairwoman Kilpatrick.