Bringing Home the Green Recovery: A User's Guide to the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Publication Date:

Publisher: Center for Economic and Policy Research

Author(s): Shawn Fremstad; Radhika Fox; Jason Walsh

Research Area: Economics

Keywords: Recession; Energy consumption; Ethnic communities

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The $787 billion recovery package marks a big, bold, and historic investment in creating green jobs and building more equitable communities. The package invests nearly $100 billion in funding for transportation and infrastructure, $48 billion in investments in job training and education, $41 billion for energy-related programs, and $20 billion in tax incentives for renewable energy.

But without substantial advocacy from local and state groups, these historic federal investments may not end up in the communities that need them most. The in-depth guide offers tangible, up-to-date information and ideas for using and securing recovery dollars to help expand opportunity in low-income communities and communities of color.

The guide is a first step in what will be a vital nationwide effort to ensure the recovery package helps all communities rise stronger than ever from this economic crisis, and that community-based organizations are at the forefront in crafting a green, equitable recovery.