Stimulus Plan Will Create Sustainable Jobs That Will Protect Public HealthFebruary 25, 2009
The economic recovery plan signed by President Obama will create 3 to 4
million quality, sustainable jobs with many protecting our country's
public health and our environment.
"Through the President's stimulus package, green initiatives will play a significant role in powering economic recovery," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "EPA's portion of the plan will create good, sustainable jobs that help produce cleaner drinking water, purer air, environmentally friendly urban and rural re-development, and reduced greenhouse gases. This is a perfect example of economic growth and environmental protection working hand in hand to the benefit of all Americans." The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 specifically includes $7.22B for projects and programs administered by EPA. These programs will protect and promote both green jobs and a healthier environment. These environmental areas include:
The new law is geared for performance and unprecedented transparency: preference will be given to projects that can be started and completed expeditiously, and EPA intends to move designated funds to states as quickly as possible. All funding will be monitored by EPA's Inspector General, which will receive $20M for oversight and review. Announcements of grants will be posted on the Web to ensure transparency. The state-by-state distributions for clean water and drinking water state revolving funds are also available on the Web. SOURCE: EPA
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