The Bill: H.R. 2368, Put America to Work Act

July 20, 2011

Most Expensive Bill of the Week--Annualized Cost: $70 billion ($350 billion over five years)

To help struggling Americans, Congressman Keith Ellison (MN-5) introduced H.R. 2368. The Put America to Work Act would make grants to state and local governments, and to Indian tribes as well, to create employment opportunities for residents who are either unemployed or underemployed. Grants would only be made available for distressed areas, such as those affected by mass foreclosures or natural disasters.

Tax dollars would be allocated for "fast-track jobs," which include repairing public buildings and spaces, restoring vacant properties, expanding food programs, and increasing staff for early childhood education programs, such as Head Start. Employment grants would also be used to increase energy efficiency in buildings, to provide human services, and to contribute to programs for disadvantaged youth. Individuals would be required to be employed for at least 12 months and work no less than 30 hours per week.

The text of the bill would authorize $350 billion for fiscal years 2012 and 2013. The funds would remain available until expended. NTUF assumes the funds would be spent over five years. Tribal governments would receive no more than five percent of total funds and state governments would be limited to 30 percent of funds.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d112:h.r.02368: