12.22.11

Murkowski Statement on Deal for Payroll Tax Cut Extensions, 20,000 Jobs for Americans

House Agrees to Bipartisan Bill Crafted in Senate

Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) today announced a plan to approve the bipartisan U.S. Senate compromise reached Saturday – extending the payroll tax cut and other benefits – while accelerating negotiations toward a longer agreement.  The bill also requires a decision from the Obama Administration on the Keystone XL pipeline within months. Senator Lisa Murkowski had the following reaction to the vote:

“With many Americans facing high unemployment and underemployment, I’m pleased that the House found a path to a short-term fix for thousands of Americans.  Their vote allows us a little bit of breathing room until we can work out a full year solution.

“But as millions of Americans look for work, this also puts the ball in the President’s court for the Keystone XL project, which could mean up to 20,000 jobs and less dependence on oil from the Middle East.”