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“How to Fix The Economy? Sometimes Less is More”

 

As Washington begins to re-float the idea of another “stimulus,” USA Today advises: “Don’t just stand there – do nothing.”

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Unemployment rate increases to 9.6 percent

 

August was another bleak month for the country’s employment situation. This morning, the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced the unemployment rate was 9.6 percent last month, up from 9.5 percent in July.

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Friday Funnies: 5 jokes about government spending

 

“Congress is very upset with Roger Clemens because they feel like they were lied to. Good! Now they know how we feel.” – Jay Leno

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State News Roundup

 

A look at the most important budget-related news and information from around the country.

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“Unemployment Rises in Almost Half of Largest Metro Cities”

 

Today’s USA Today reports on the summer’s dismal hiring lapse in large metro areas, and points to business’ uncertainty about the future as a key culprit.

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Definition of the Week: Mark-up

 

A mark up is a meeting a committee holds in order to review and discuss a piece of legislation. Members of the committee may propose changes to a bill by offering amendments. Each change is voted on individually. Once all of the changes are either incorporated or denied, the bill is voted on by the full committee. If the bill is passed it will go to the full chamber for a vote.

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Private-sector sheds 10,000 jobs

 

In more sobering economic news, Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP), a large payroll company, reported that the private-sector cut 10,000 jobs last month. Economists had forecasted that the report would show an increase of 17,000.

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Congressional misuse of taxpayer provided travel funds

 

The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that at least six lawmakers are under investigation for misusing taxpayer money intended for overseas travel expenses (Congressional rules allow members of the House and Senate to receive daily allowances for meals, cabs and other official travel-related expenses).

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Just the Facts: Deficit Commission Member Jeb Hensarling

 

Rep. Jeb Hensarling, who was first elected in 2002, sits on the House Budget and Financial Services committees.

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Public Pulse: stimulus and tax cuts

 

According to Rasmussen, 47% of likely voters say they are more worried government will do “too much” in reacting to the nation’s economic problems; 44% are more worried government will do too little.

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