South Bend, IN—Today, Congressman Joe Donnelly visited Walsh and Kelly Paving Contractors to discuss provisions of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Specifically, he highlighted the jobs the plan is designed to create and its emphasis on improving local infrastructure. Donnelly was joined by employees of local construction businesses.
“This legislation is designed to help get our economy back on the right track by creating and saving thousands of jobs in our area and addressing the economic challenges facing our community,” Donnelly said.
During the press conference, Donnelly focused on the provisions in the recovery package that will help local businesses. Specifically, Donnelly spoke about the over $650 million that will be directed to the State of Indiana to repair highways and bridges, the $78 million that will be made available for transit capital grants and the $5.8 million to improve public transit systems. In addition, as a result of this legislation, ninety-five percent of workers will receive a refundable tax credit of up to $400 per worker, and businesses will be able to invest in new equipment through a provision that allows them to write off fifty percent of the cost of depreciable property.
Donnelly also talked about language in the legislation requiring recipients of the recovery funds to give priority to “shovel-ready” projects that are projected to be completed in two years, are part of an approved state or metropolitan plan, and are located in economically-distressed areas.
“I am pleased that this legislation encourages states to give priority to areas that are suffering the most, such as Elkhart,” Donnelly said.
In addition, Donnelly highlighted the strict accountability and transparency measures that are included in the legislation. The Obama Administration has pledged to post publicly on a website (www.recovery.gov) every dollar spent.
“Folks in north central Indiana are suffering during these difficult economic times,” Donnelly said. “Doing nothing was not an option. While this bill is not perfect, it represents a balanced compromise that combines tax relief for middle-class families and small businesses with smart investments in infrastructure, education, and energy efficiency.”
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