January 18,2008

Baucus Comments on Economic Stimulus

Finance Committee would consider key elements of stimulus legislation

Washington, DC – Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) commented today following President George W. Bush’s remarks on the need for economic stimulus. The Finance Committee has jurisdiction over U.S. tax policy.

“Effective economic stimulus responds to the realities of the American economy at the very moment that it’s needed, and that’s the kind of package I intend to help enact in the coming days. I’m inclined to agree that tax relief, particularly rebates, would be the best foundation for a stimulus package, but I think Congress can build beyond tax relief to further address the needs of Americans bearing the brunt of slow job growth and the housing crisis. As any rebate or business tax provision would come through the Senate Finance Committee, I hope the President will sit down with us and with congressional leadership to settle on elements of a comprehensive stimulus package that can really rev our economy’s engines. There’s room to work together here, and working together will be in the best interests of the American people. Folks in my home state of Montana and all across America expect us to get this right.”

This week, Baucus announced a series of economic stimulus hearings to begin January 22, entitled, “Strengthening America’s Economy: Stimulus that Makes Sense.” See details at http://www.finance.senate.gov/.

# # #