The Chair of the House Appropriations Committee feels an economic stimulus package is needed, but the one working through Congress doesn't go far enough.
The proposed $150 billion includes rebates for tax payers and tax breaks for businesses. Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) says allowing the economy to slip into recessions would greatly increase the federal deficit. The Wausau Democrat says the deficit would triple with unemployed American using government programs to survive.
Obey says the package proposed will provide modest assistance, but more needs to be done.
Obey says it's outrageous it doesn't include an extension of unemployment benefits or more money for low-income energy assistance. He also wanted to see more aide to states for Medicaid, as state budgets are squeezed by the economic downturn.