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National Urban League Priorities for the American Jobs Act
President Obama’s American Jobs Act (AJA) would invest $447 billion in a comprehensive set of job creation proposals. The President’s plan essentially endorses three key components of the National Urban League’s 12-Point Jobs Plan – the creation of an infrastructure bank, direct job creation and summer jobs for youth. The National Urban League supports the American Jobs Act and will work to ensure resources are distributed directly to the communities that are hardest-hit by unemployment and putting 14 million Americans back to work.
1. Rebuilding and Modernizing America Infrastructure Banks – The creation of an infrastructure bank has enormous potential to stimulate the economy and put Americans to work. Under the President’s proposal, an institution would be created that would mobilize significant private investment in economically viable infrastructure projects or regional or national significance in order to create jobs, reduce our infrastructure deficit, and support U.S.
competitiveness. At a time when so many individuals out of work and so many infrastructure improvements needed, we recommend the program needs to include more than roads and bridges. It must also address the need to build schools, community centers, libraries, and – especially relevant during
times of harsh weather – storm sewers and flood control projects.
Project Rebuild- The AJA would authorize $15 billion in investments to put construction workers on the job rehabilitating and refurbishing thousands of vacant and foreclosed homes and businesses. The provision would also encourage grant recipients to hire local residents or contract with local small businesses. The funding flows directly to states and we recommend states direct funds to local municipalities most in need.
2. Direct Job Creation
3. Pathways Back to Work
4. Youth Employment
5. Assistance for the Long Term Unemployed
6. Invest in Innovation
Click here to read the full policy brief.
