Washington—U.S. Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) today introduced a bill that would prohibit the use of stimulus funds for signs that advertise taxpayer spending on stimulus projects. Earlier this year, stimulus legislation, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (H.R.1), was signed into law and will cost the American taxpayers a total of $1.1 trillion.  Senator Gregg voted against H.R. 1.

 Senator Gregg stated, “Our nation continues to confront an economic crisis that is affecting the livelihoods of all Americans.  Unfortunately, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been a disappointment so far.  It has done little to address this ongoing crisis, create jobs, and turn around our nation’s economy.  Moreover, recent reports about wasteful spending of stimulus funds are concerning, especially when families in New Hampshire and across the country are tightening their belts and trying to stretch their own dollars.  

 “Considering the disappointment surrounding the stimulus bill, it flies in the face of reason that signs are being constructed at a price tag of reportedly $300 each for lawmakers to pat themselves on the back about this legislation.  To spend taxpayer dollars on signs touting the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at each and every project does nothing for households who are struggling to get by or for those who’ve lost their jobs during the economic downturn.  These signs are simply for political self-interest, and it’s about time they stop so that stimulus dollars can be put to better use.”

A copy of the bill is attached.