Courtney Talking 'Economic Opportunity' After State of the Union

U.S. Rep. Joseph Courtney (D-2nd District) released the following statement after President Obama delivered the 2014 State of the Union Address on Tuesday night:

“As I listened to President Obama’s State of the Union Address tonight, I was repeatedly reminded of the story of my guest at the speech, Katherine Hackett. Ms. Hackett, a mother from Moodus with one son in the Army and another in the Marines, was laid off from her job as a nursing home administrator in July. Her unemployment benefits – the modest lifeline that has helped her stay afloat while searching hard for a new job – expired in December. As President Obama focused on issues of economic opportunity, they were brought to life for me by Ms. Hackett.

“We must do more to foster good-paying job growth so that job seekers like Ms. Hackett add to the workforce again with their talent and expertise. Passing robust infrastructure and transportation bills, investing in medical research, and extending tax credits to bolster our real estate market, expand renewable energy, and promote research and development will strengthen the underpinnings of our economy in the years to come. In the immediate term, however, Congress must act to extend unemployment insurance during this difficult job market. Aside from being a moral imperative, it provides a catalyst to local economies when people spend their benefits.

“Since the passage of a bipartisan budget and appropriations package in December and January, I am more hopeful that this congress is capable of coming together to address the issues facing our country. Tonight, we heard many stories of Americans who want desperately to return to work, and to contribute meaningfully to our economy and our society. Congress should stand up and act on their behalf.”

Courtney is a Vernon resident.