WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) this evening voted for final passage of an economic stimulus package that targets tax rebates, business tax relief, and housing market help for the American people.  The bill will now be sent to the White House for President Bush’s signature.

“I think we’ve got a good bill at the end of the day.  Both sides have agreed that this package and the tax relief at the center of it, can inject a burst of growth into the American economy,” Emerson said.  “This is half of the equation; we have to think about long-term growth as well as short-term stimulus, but this bill has what we need right now.”

The legislation provides tax rebates to income tax filers who claim a minimum of $3,000 of income or pay $1.00 of federal income tax, including those who report income from Social Security or veterans disability benefits.

“I’m glad the tax rebate part of the bill includes a more equitable approach to addressing every American who reports income and pays income tax.  It’s up to all of us now to make wise decisions for ourselves and our families as we put this part of the package to work for the American economy,” Emerson added.

In addition, the bill differs from a previous version passed by the U.S. House of Representatives by denying the rebate to individuals who do not report a valid Social Security number on their income tax returns.

-30-