Congress Puts Middle Class Back in Economic Driver's Seat

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 7, 2008

Contact:Emily Barocas/202-225-7295/202-593-1377

CONGRESS PUTS MIDDLE CLASS BACK IN ECONOMIC DRIVER'S SEAT

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, the House of the Representatives acted quickly to pass economicstimulus legislation, also approved by the Senate, to bring relief to millionsof American families. Congressman John B. Larson CT-01, Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, said:

"What passed the House ofRepresentatives and the Senate today is quite literally one of the mostprogressive tax policies this country has seen in years. We have put money directly into the hands of 35 million Americans whootherwise would have been ignored. Itis these Americans who are hurting the most, whose wallets are seeing the moststrain under the pressures of our slowing economy. And it is these Americans who some would have liked to leave out of astimulus package.

The lower- andmiddle-class are the foundation of our economy. But, their needs have been relegated to the backseat of the BushAdministration's economic policies. Now,we are beginning to put them back in the driver's seat. It is the middle and lower-class who will help steer our economy back tohealth

This is just a firststep towards economic recovery. Westill have many major hurdles to overcome and much to do. This Congress will continue to work for the American people. We must rebuild our country's infrastructure. Improve our education system. And,make sure every American has access to quality healthcare. Because, every American deserves to know that if they work hard and playby the rules they will be rewarded with not just the stability but all of thepotential of the American Dream."