Economy and Jobs

Garamendi explained: "Can countries with atrocious labor and environmental standards sometimes produce goods a little bit cheaper than American workers? Sure, but that’s a shallow way of looking at our economy. As we saw with the Bay Bridge, sometimes you get what you pay for. Even more importantly, supply chains matter. American workers pay American taxes and spend money at local businesses. With increased demand, these businesses expand and hire new workers, creating even more local demand along with tax revenues that can then be used in additional infrastructure. This cycle of growth and prosperity must be our nation’s priority in the years ahead."

"Our soldiers worked overtime and risked their lives for our country," Congressman Garamendi said. "I urge them to file early for this payment, so they can collect what they are owed. This compensation will help our soldiers better afford their mortgages, their groceries, and other day-to-day expenses."

"When America’s largest banks were on the verge of collapse, the federal government stepped in to avert an even worse financial crisis," Garamendi added. "Now that most of the banks have paid back their bailouts and reported profits, we expect them to work with Americans struggling to keep their homes and livelihoods. Instead, too many greedy Wall Street firms seem eager to exploit vulnerable families."

“For 33 years my family has lived in the Delta. We love its unique character and history. Its waterways, communities, farms, ecosystem together form a valuable and fragile part of California,” said Congressman Garamendi. “This legislation will give local communities and individuals the tool to protect the Delta.”

"By developing strategies to reduce Travis’s carbon footprint through the EMIS pilot program, the Air Force will also help California achieve its AB 32 climate change goals," Garamendi added. "We’ve had a rough patch in the economy, but one bright spot in California has been the rapid growth of our green technology sector. Our leadership in reducing greenhouse gases – at Travis and throughout the state – is a win for our economy and a win for our precious natural resources."

"By opening up the credit market to small businesses, this bill provides America's entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed," said Congressman Garamendi, a small business owner. "Although three million Americans have jobs because of the policies of President Obama and this Democratic-led Congress, we face a long road ahead. Expanded access to capital bolsters our economic recovery and helps ward off a double-dip recession."

"If you own a business in this country, and you’ve been thinking about broadband installation, machine tools, or a new production line, with this legislation, now’s the time," Congressman Garamendi said. "By allowing corporations to write-off 100 percent of all capital investments through 2011, we can create a chain reaction of job creation. Businesses with write-offs can expand and hire new workers by purchasing equipment made by businesses that can expand and hire new workers – a perfect synergy for economic growth."

"The most high risk pipeline in the Bay Area runs through my district – from Livermore to Sunol," added Garamendi, California’s former Lieutenant Governor and State Insurance Commissioner. "People I represent are among the most vulnerable in the nation, yet according to a recent newspaper report, city officials were not informed. I have many questions for PG&E and the state and federal regulators. I want answers."