A Real Jobs Bill

June 14, 2010

Working America reports that if “the 15 million unemployed workers in this country stood side-by-side, literally shoulder to shoulder, they would stretch from Bangor, Maine to Los Angeles, California… and back again.” Even more Americans have given up on finding work, or can only find part-time work when they need to work full-time to support their families.

Congress must act immediately to avoid the loss of many more jobs in the coming months by passing a jobs bill that helps states with their budget shortfalls.  Without that important funding, more Americans will lose their jobs and their famlies will be forced into further desperation.  And it could make it harder to rebuild the economy and get our nation back to prosperity.

The urgent need for action was underscored by a study released last week by the National Governors Association and the National Association of State Budget Officers.  The Fiscal Survey of States showed “Although the nation's economy shows signs of improvement, state fiscal conditions continue to deteriorate.”

The report makes a compelling case that state and local governments need help to protect a million jobs in this difficult economy.  It also points out that recovery could be a long way off for our state and local governments.

Helping states now is a smart investment for the economy and will reduce deficits over the long run.  According to a June report from the National Urban League, putting laid-off workers back on the job could reduce the deficit by $235 billion.

AFSCME members are demanding that jobs legislation include critical funding for states and local governments. Congress must act now to protect workers and promote American jobs.