Idaho’s Democratic Legislators unveiled their innovative Idaho Jobs and Opportunity Blueprint (IJOBs) on January 27, 2010.

The IJOBs plan includes ideas for improving communications and strengthening projects that support and increase jobs.  It has specific benefits for small business job development, tax incentives for job creation and help for small businesses seeking capital in these times of tight credit.
“Our Idaho Jobs and Opportunity Blueprint, or IJOBs, is a vision for economic recovery that borrows from programs in other states while drawing on the inherent strengths unique to Idaho,” said House Minority Leader John Rusche.  “We hope this is just the beginning of wide-ranging discussions focused on how the Legislature can improve the jobs economy in Idaho,” Rusche added.

IJOBs is a package of six bills developed after discussions with business professionals, education leaders, and others from local communities.  The plan recognizes that Idaho needs a diverse economy where small businesses are welcome.  The slate of bills includes three introduced in the Senate last week and three bills to be introduced in the House next week.  For additional details, please see the attached outline of the legislation which includes links to the Idaho Legislature’s website.

“The IJOBs plan is designed to turn unemployment checks into paychecks,” said Minority Leader Kate Kelly.  “Idaho Democrats see a future of opportunity, economic growth, prosperity, and good jobs.  When those jobs return so will state revenues. When those jobs return we will reduce the need for safety net services. When those jobs return Idaho will be on its way to recovery,” Kelly said.

Having introduced the IJOBs plan, Democratic leaders invite all members of the Legislature and all Idahoans to join them in revitalizing Idaho’s economy by supporting this legislation.