Unemployed? Don't Count on Help From Perry
Perry randomly selects a program to nix from the stimulus funds? Don't think so
Perry says he still would turn down federal stimulus unemployment funds.
Texas Gov. Rick Perry, seemingly unconcerned with his reputation for pandering to big business, has again affirmed his position on federal stimulus unemployment funds: he would reject them.
In a speech before the Texas Workforce Commission last Wednesday he explained his case, arguing that when stimulus funds ran out, Texas would have a difficult time making up the difference, and it would increase the burden on business owners.
"Cutting government programs that are put in place that are entitlements are almost impossible to cut," Perry said, according to the Dallas Morning News.
While Perry and the Senate decide, funding for unemployment is running dry. Texas needs $839 million to meet the unemployment funds’ minimum requirements by Oct. 1.
Though Perry said he is concerned with covering programs boosted by stimulus funds after funding runs out, he has blithely accepted most of the other $17 billion from Washington, some of which is slated for programs that would burden the economy in the long run.
The bill to overturn Perry’s decision passed the Senate this week and will now go on to the House, where it is also likely to pass.
Holly LaFon has written and worked for various local publications including D Magazine and Examiner.
