Serrano Advocates for Community Jobs

José M. Serrano

January 22, 2010

Committed to meeting the needs of individuals and families affected by the downturn in the economy, Senator José M. Serrano attended a press conference on the steps of New York City Hall to advocate for the passage of the bill HR 4268, “Put America to Work Act,” and for the introduction of a similar Community Jobs bill in the U.S. Senate.

This bill, introduced by Rep. Keith Ellison in the House of Representatives, would establish a community job creation program that will provide funding directly to cities and states to create immediate employment opportunities for unemployed residents.

"New York’s job market has suffered a great deal during the current economic conditions. In particular, low-income communities, such as those in my district, have felt the impact of the unemployment crisis and have not had the opportunity to benefit from the transportation and infrastructure-related jobs created through the first economic stimulus bill.

“I am in full support of the Community Jobs bill introduced in the House of Representatives and, along with some of my Senate colleagues, have sent a letter to U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer urging them to support a similar bill in the Senate."

The Senator was joined by Councilmembers Melissa Mark-Viverito and Brad Lander, as well as advocates from Community Voices Heard and Common Cause New York.