U.S. Representative Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) released the following statement after voting for two large legislative packages aimed at boosting job creation, the Jobs for America Act (H.R. 4) and the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act (H.R. 2), which both passed the U.S. House of Representatives today:
"America is facing a historically low labor participation rate, and many workers who are seeking full-time work are only getting part-time jobs. This tepid economic recovery needs a jump start, which is why I was happy to support the jobs packages that passed the House today to lower energy prices, cut unnecessary regulations for small businesses, and give tax relief to our small business owners who are looking to hire workers. Harry Reid needs to allow a vote on these bills that will ensure better economic opportunities for all Americans."
Included in the Jobs for America Act are the Save American Workers Act (H.R. 2575) and the America's Small Business Tax Relief Act (H.R. 4457). The Save American Workers Act re-defines full-time employment under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act as 40 hours per week. The 30-hour full-time definition is already resulting in less opportunities, fewer hours and lower incomes for workers. The America's Small Business Tax Relief Act would permanently set small business expensing levels at $500,000, and adjusts them for inflation, which would be predictable and adequate for small businesses’ needs. Expensing helps alleviate two top concerns for small-business owners, reducing tax complexity and improving cash flow, and allows them to hire more freely.
Included in the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act is the Northern Route Approval Act (H.R. 3). The Northern Route Approval Act would allow construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline to move forward immediately, creating thousands of jobs in communities near the construction project and along shipping routes. Additionally, the pipeline would stabilize the cost of energy, which currently eats into business revenues that could otherwise be used to hire workers.
