Political Quotes

“I'm pleased to introduce the Assistance in Development to Communities Act. This bill addressed the importance--and need--for community-based, economic development to assist areas in trade-related, economic transitions. Despite the increased globalization of our economy, many communities nationwide are still one-company or one-industry towns. If that company or industry is adversely affected by trade, the entire community faces economic strain. When these communities lose a major employer or industry, they sadly also lose something far more valuable--they lose their way of life, and too often their strong sense of community. Currently, when an individual loses a job because of the effects of trade, the federal government provides Trade Adjustment Assistance or NAFTA-Trade Adjustment Assistance to help with income support and worker retraining. But what good is that training without jobs? While we continue to open new avenues of free trade, the federal government has an obligation to help trade affected communities attract good jobs. Unfortunately, prospective employers don't automatically appear on the community's doorstep. Workers have mortgages, car payments, health concerns, family obligations and ties to the community, so relocation isn't always feasible. Local officials must find a way to lure industries to the area.”