For information: Chris Shields, 612-839-9359
For immediate release February 22, 2010
Urge Governor to Quickly Sign Bill
St. Paul— Ahead of tonight’s anticipated passage of a jobs and infrastructure bill in the House and Senate, Minnesota AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Steve Hunter praised lawmakers’ swift action in spurring job growth. “This bill is a huge first step in creating the good paying jobs Minnesotans want and need,” said Hunter. “Governor Pawlenty needs to do what’s right for Minnesota families and sign this bill the second it hits his desk.”
“With the Governor’s signature, Minnesotans can expect thousands of new and good-paying jobs to be created,” said Harry Melander, President of Minnesota State Building and Construction Trades Council.
An analysis from Ken Simonson, Chief Economist of Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America shows an investment of $1 billion in Minnesota would create 21,000 to 27,000 jobs. This analysis estimates 7,100 – 9,500 direct construction jobs, 3,400 – 4,500 direct and indirect jobs for engineers, architects, etc., and 10,500 to 13,500 spin-off jobs for suppliers, and services providers.
The Minnesota AFL-CIO's number one priority this session is passage of a jobs infrastructure bonding bill of at least $1 billion.
“We appreciative the solid leadership Sen. Keith Langseth and Rep. Alice Hausman have demonstrated in moving this jobs package as quickly as possible, and all of the legislators who voted for jobs,” Hunter added. “Not only will this create the jobs we need, but infrastructure that will benefit all Minnesotans.”
The Minnesota AFL-CIO is made up of more than 1,000 affiliates representing over 300,000 working men and women throughout the state.
###