Sheila Jackson Lee for Congress—Sheila Jackson Lee is running for re-election to U.S. Congress, Texas' 18th District

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee voted Thursday to make targeted investments in areas that will create jobs, rebuild our economy, and keep our country safe. The Consolidated Appropriations Act builds on our strategic economic plan to provide short-term help for the hardest hit Americans during this economic crisis and long-term solutions to grow our economy for years to come.

“My number one priority is rebuilding our economy and creating jobs in the 18th Congressional District,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee “This bill will help us do that by bringing much-needed immediate economic relief to our families and making targeted investments to grow our economy over the long term.”

The Consolidated Appropriations Act increases funding for infrastructure, health, and education to create jobs immediately while investing in our local communities and workforce for the long term. It invests $1.4 billion in training and support services for workers impacted by mass layoffs and plant closures. To support small businesses – the engines of job growth in this country – it provides additional lending funds for firms having trouble borrowing capital in this market.

As part of our commitment to our veterans, this bill increases funding for services to the men and women who served our country so bravely – including increases for mental health services, health care in rural areas and assistance to homeless veterans. It boosts funding for military construction in order to make sure our troops have all of the facilities they need to help keep our country safe. It also provides increased funding for state and local law enforcement to keep our communities safe here at home.

“Our troops and their families sacrifice a tremendous amount for this country,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee “We have a moral obligation to support the military families in Houston and across the nation before, during and after their service. This bill does just that, with programs and services that will play a significant role in improving the quality of life for our brave men and women in the Armed Services.”