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GOVERNOR CULVER MEETS WITH CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS REGARDING ECONOMIC STIMULUS PROPOSALS

‘Productive’ meeting addressed the economic challenges facing state governments

Des Moines – Today, Governor Chet Culver had a productive meeting in Williamsburg, VA with Democratic Congressional leadership on the economic stimulus legislation currently debated in Washington.  As federal liaison of the Democratic Governor’s Association, Governor Culver sat on a panel with three other Governors to discuss the economic stimulus legislation with approximately 140 members of Congress, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer.

“I appreciated the opportunity to come here today and fight on behalf of Iowa’s economy,” said Governor Culver.  “We had a productive discussion about the needs of our state, and the challenges a faltering national economy could mean to Iowans.  “I still believe we must have a state component of the final stimulus package which allows states to create jobs through roads and infrastructure projects, as well as protect Medicaid enrollees.  I know Congress shares our concern.”

This week, the Senate Finance Committee and the US House of Representatives passed different versions of the economic stimulus package.  

“Both proposals have their merits.  I am especially pleased to see that extensions of unemployment insurance and of the Wind Production Tax Credit are being discussed.  I call on Congress to act in a timely manner, resolve their differences, and pass a bill that both stimulates the economy and protects the financial interests of Iowans,” said the Governor.  “I want to take this opportunity to remind Iowans that though the national economic outlook remains uncertain, Iowa’s future looks bright.  With our cash reserves at an all-time high, new investments being made by the business community, and renewable energy opportunities continuing to expand, I am certain Iowa will be able to weather any challenges in our future.”

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