Gary West

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 8, 2009

CONTACT:

Gary West 757-874-0492

Garywest3@mac.com

Oder Opposes Federal Funding to Stimulate Virginia’s Economy

Delegate votes to reject $125 million in federal stimulus money

Delegate Glenn Oder opposed amendments from Governor Tim Kaine today that will make Virginia eligible for $125 million in funding aimed at stimulating the Virginia economy. The funds are intended to help more Virginia families cope with the current economic recession without straining the state budget.  For the first time, part-time workers will be eligible for benefits, and eligibility will be prolonged for workers who have lost their jobs but are enrolled in workforce training programs.
 
In February, the unemployment rate in Newport News hit 8.5% percent, compared to a 7 percent rate statewide.
 
“It’s incredibly disappointing that Glenn Oder chose to stand with big business instead of hard-working Virginia families,” said local attorney Gary West, Oder’s likely Democratic challenger in the November General Assembly election.  “By rejecting these amendments, Glenn Oder has made it clear he’d rather see our share of the stimulus go to other states. People all across Virginia are being laid off in this recession and this funding will help them provide for their families. Now is not the time to play partisan political games with peoples’ futures.”

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