"State governments are on the frontline of this economic downturn, as we confront the ugly equation of having fewer resources to meet the greater needs of struggling families," said Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer, chair of the DGA. "This plan will create and save more than 3 million jobs. It's time to put people back to work. Americans need our government to act decisively to revitalize our economy."
Governors are prepared to work with the federal government to put people to work immediately.
"There is a tremendous amount of work that needs to be done to repair our roads and bridges, rebuild our infrastructure and renovate our schools," said Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley, vice chair of the DGA. "All over the country, we can put people back to work, both in the private and public sector."
The Governors urged Congress to prioritize provisions that will create jobs and help states protect important long-term priorities, such as education and health care.
"Now is not the time to abandon our schools, to ignore the medical needs of our citizens and stymie job creation," said Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen, the DGA's policy chair. "These programs will accomplish the most significant goals of the stimulus, putting people first and creating good jobs across the country."
As employment numbers hit their lowest point in 34 years Friday, states are tightening their belts -- even as families rely more on states' safety nets for unemployment insurance and health care.
"Just like so many of our constituents, Governors must do more with less during these tough economic times," said Iowa Gov. Chet Culver, federal liaison of the DGA. "This recovery plan will strengthen long-term investments that will help our communities be more competitive and vibrant down the road."
The Governors also urged Congress to rely on states to determine the most pressing needs in their communities and the most effective projects to create jobs immediately.
"As Governors, we know what works to solve the problems of our states," said New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine, economic policy chair of the DGA. "We need the flexibility to craft solutions that work for our citizens and are the fastest way to revitalize our states' economies."
Source: Democratic Governors Association
