Critics to Congress: Focus on Jobs, Not Deficit
Thursday, August 11, 2011
DENVER - The level of U.S. debt may not be the biggest issue facing the country, say worker advocates and other groups. They warn that constant discussion of the politics of the debt ceiling and the deficit is taking attention away from other pressing issues.
Bridget Kaminetsky, Colorado organizer with 9to5, The National Association for Working Women, says while the U.S. debt is an important topic of discussion, focusing on it ignores a bigger problem: anemic job growth.
"We need to be talking about how we can support the middle class - those who are the most vulnerable in our economy. Balancing the budget on the backs of hardworking people simply isn't good."
Colorado's unemployment rate is currently at 8.5 percent - slightly lower than the national average of about 9 percent.
Other organizations echo 9to5's concerns. MoveOn held a series of rallies across the U.S. on Wednesday - including 10 in Colorado - calling for lawmakers to focus on job creation and not on making cuts to benefits and services.
Kaminetsky says Colorado's working families are hurting now and need help.
"We need to take an approach that's not just slashing programs but also is looking at revenue increases."
She says a recent study from the Center for American Progress found that the states that cut the most in government programs and services during this recession had a higher unemployment rate and slower growth than other states.
The Center for American Progress study is at www.AmericanProgress.org.
get more stories like this via email
Health and Wellness
The Missouri Legislature has approved a law to stop its Medicaid program, known as MO HealthNet, from paying Planned Parenthood for medical services …
Environment
A round of public testimony wrapped up this week as part of renewed efforts by a company seeking permit approval in North Dakota for an underground pi…
Social Issues
Air travelers could face fewer obstacles in securing a refund if their flight is canceled or changed under new federal rules announced Wednesday…
Environment
An environmental group is suing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the Arkansas mudalia snail under the Endangered Species Act. In …
A coalition of climate groups seeking cleaner air at the rail yards and ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will hold a "die-in" rally tomorrow at Los…
Health and Wellness
By Marianne Dhenin for Yes! Magazine.Broadcast version by Shanteya Hudson for Georgia News Connection reporting for the YES! Media/Public News …