Boxer introduces job creation bill

California Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer, chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, has introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Economic Development Administration, which provides development grants to communities with high levels of economic distress. 

The bill, which was introduced with Oklahoma Republican Sen. James Inhofe, a ranking member of the EPW committee, is named the Economic Development Revitalization Act of 2009.

"In these tough economic times, creating good jobs for American workers is our top priority," Boxer said.

"The Economic Development Administration has a great track record of generating good jobs and will benefit communities in California and across America. 

"I am pleased to be working with Senator Inhofe and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move this important jobs bill forward to bring help to the families that need it most."

The current multi-year authorization for the Economic Development Administration expired on Sept. 30.  The act would authorize EDA for 2009 through 2013 at $500 million per year while making changes to EDA programs to ensure funding reaches the communities most in need, according to a news release from Boxer's office.