March 26, 2010

 Washington, DC – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today made the following statement on the news that Nevada’s unemployment rate increased slightly from 13 to 13.2 percent.

“The news that our state’s unemployment rate increased slightly in February is evidence that even though we’re seeing signs of improvement in the economy, we still have a lot to do to put Nevadans back to work and help them get through these challenging times.  Unfortunately, Senate Republicans have once again turned their back on the plight of unemployed Nevadans by refusing to extend unemployment benefits.

“Nevadans expect their elected leaders to act swiftly to create jobs and we have responded to their call.  In addition to the two jobs bills President Obama already signed into law this year, the HIRE Act and the Travel Promotion Act, the Senate recently passed the FAA Reauthorization Act and will soon begin work on a bill to help strengthen small businesses so they can start hiring again.

“While the Senate is making progress on its jobs agenda, this is only one piece of the puzzle.  What Nevada needs is a long-term vision from the state leaders who are charged with our state’s economic development, so the next time tourism takes a hit our economy won’t suffer as badly.  That’s why recent announcements, like A-Power’s plan to build a wind turbine production and assembly plant in Nevada, are so important.  The construction of this facility will create 1,000 good-paying jobs and help diversify our state’s economy.

“I know from personal experience the struggles Nevadans face, and even though we face constant opposition to our efforts to provide relief, I will continue fighting to protect them during these uncertain times.”