Statement by Edward J. McElroy,
President, American Federation of Teachers,
On the Stimulus Package Approved by Congress Yesterday

Note: The U. S. House and Senate voted overwhelmingly yesterday to approve a $168 billion economic stimulus package that would provide tax rebates to most Americans and grant tax incentives for business investment. Under the plan, individuals will get a maximum $600 rebate, which will phase out for those with incomes between $75,000 and $87,000. Married couples will get a maximum $1,200 rebate, which will phase out for those with incomes between $150,000 and $174,000. Because of changes made by the Senate yesterday, low-income seniors and disabled veterans also will be eligible for $300 payments. The bill now goes to President Bush for his expected signature.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The legislation passed yesterday is a first step toward providing working families with much-needed economic relief. However, our ailing economy needs more than a one-time shot in the arm. Yesterday’s action should be seen as a down payment on a broader economic stimulus plan that can’t come soon enough for struggling families, seniors and working Americans. 

Going forward, Congress should move swiftly to enact an additional package that includes an extension of unemployment benefits; increased fuel assistance and food stamps for low-income Americans; a boost in Medicaid payments to help cash-strapped states; and long-overdue investments in our nation’s crumbling schools, roads, bridges and infrastructure. We look forward to working with Congress to advance this agenda with the same urgency that was brought to passing the initial stimulus plan.

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