SEN. LAURIE MONNES ANDERSON   Deputy Majority Leader Chair, Senate Health Care & Veterans’ Affairs   State Senator, District 25: Gresham, Troutdale, Fairview, Wood Village

 

 

News Release

 

January 28, 2009

CONTACT:  Molly Woon (503) 986-1074

 

Senator Monnes Anderson applauds passage of Oregon Jobs Stimulus Plan

Plan will create ‘shovel-ready’ jobs, shore up state infrastructure, invest in Mt. Hood C.C.

 

SALEM – A state economic stimulus plan passed the Senate today will invest significant dollars into economic recovery for Oregon workers. Senate Bill 338 provides for over $175 million in deferred maintenance and capital construction authority through bond sales to take place in the next two months. The projects will create immediate employment opportunities for Oregonians in all 36 counties.

 

“Oregon families are suffering for lack of jobs and this stimulus package is a first step the state can take to get people back to work,” said Deputy Senate Majority Leader Laurie Monnes Anderson (D-Gresham). “This is more than an investment in our infrastructure; it’s an investment in Oregon families.”

 

The bonding package will directly promote employment in construction and materials supply while also indirectly supporting employment across sectors. Every $1 million in construction will create 10.8 direct jobs and 6.5 indirect jobs. In East Multnomah County, Mt. Hood Community College could receive over $1 million in bonding capacity for proposed upgrades to classrooms and increased compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

 

“This package is a triumph for both Oregon workers and students,” said Monnes Anderson. “By focusing on smaller building updates we’re creating opportunities for local contractors to get back to work. By investing in our buildings we’re improving classroom environment and accessibility for local students.”

 

The entire list of deferred maintenance projects and other resources on SB 338 is available on the website of the Legislative Fiscal Office. The bill will head to the House floor for a vote next week.

 

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