U.S. Senator Mark Pryor

Economy

Arkansans have always believed that with hard work and ingenuity, any one of us can achieve the American Dream. In these challenging economic times, I am working hard to ensure this dream is still within reach for each and every Arkansan.

In February 2009, I worked across party lines to help create an economic stimulus package that would have an immediate and long-term economic impact on our state. The final compromise included significant tax cuts for middle-class families and investments in transportation, water and waste water systems, public safety, education, energy efficiency and broadband expansion. Arkansas is expected to receive an infusion of $2.9 billion dollars to support these initiatives throughout the state. For more information on where these dollars are going, click here.

Investing in our small businesses is another essential aspect of job creation. Small businesses employ just over half of all private sector employees and have generated 64% of net new jobs over the past 15 years. As a member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, I have fought to lower taxes for small businesses and make health care more affordable for employers, and I will continue to ensure our small businesses receive the support they need to grow and thrive in a tough economy.

I am also dedicated to balancing the budget and paying off the national debt, which will keep interest rates low and benefit the economy. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I know this commitment includes making tough, unpopular decisions to get our fiscal house back in order.

One of the best long-term economic investments we can make is through a renewed commitment to education. To make a lasting difference in our state, especially in our most economically depressed areas, we must improve the quality of education to prepare our children to compete in an ever-changing environment of industry and technology.