Washington, DC

–
U.S. Senators Benjamin L. Cardin, Sheldon Whitehouse and Jeff Merkley held a press conference this afternoon to discuss how the
Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act will strengthen America’s economy and help put unemployed Americans back to work.  The
HIRE Act is focused on four key job creation provisions which all enjoy bipartisan support.  Senate Democrats are committed to pursuing a job creation agenda throughout the year and are hopeful that Republicans will join them in efforts to put America back to work. 

“We need to act now to create more American jobs,” Senator Cardin said. “The HIRE Act provides essential tools that will help create a climate where America’s private sector, particularly small businesses, can find expanded opportunities and hire more workers. It’s a great starting point, based on provisions that have gained bipartisan support.”

“In Rhode Island, the unemployment rate remains around 13%, and hundreds of constituents have contacted my office in support of new legislation to create jobs.  We must deliver for them,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “Today’s bill represents the first of what I hope will be several new pieces of legislation that will build on the success of the Recovery Act.  I hope that Republicans will vote today in the interests of their constituents and not for the 100 corporate lobbyists they strategized with last week.”

“Every Senator has a choice to make: are they here to solve America’s problems or simply to score political points?” said Senator Merkley. “Each part of this bill has bipartisan support, but more importantly, each part will help create desperately needed jobs.  It’s time to set aside the posturing and get down to business – action on jobs cannot wait.”