Lieberman's Jobs Proposal

By Josh Rogers on Friday, July 18, 2003.

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Campaigning in Salem Friday, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Lieberman unveiled his plan to boost manufacturing jobs.

NHPR's Josh Rogers has more.

The Connecticut Senator told workers at the diversified optical plant that he can stop what he termed the ?hemorrhaging of American manufacturing jobs.? The key, says Lieberman, is for America to cut into the trade deficit that topped out at more than 470 billion in 2002.

?I?m going to keep working to open new markets and grow exports?.but I?m going to work just as hard to make sure that free trade is fair trade and to make sure that free trade does not become a free ride for countries that don?t play by the rules.?

Lieberman pointed to China as the worst fair trade scofflaw?..Lieberman accused that country of currency manipulation??And said Chinese pirating of American products ranging from auto parts to pharmaceuticals costs US manufactures more than 200 billion every year??

"We?re getting killed?..They are eating our lunch?.and that?s costing us jobs."

But to stem that loss of jobs over the long haul, Lieberman says America must do more that modify it?s international trade polices??He says government also needs to close the so-called Bermuda tax loophole??and offer greater rewards all manufacturers that choose to remain in the US.

"I intend to give companies that manufacture here in the US a real tax break?..the more you produce here the bigger the credit?..That?s an incentive to stay and grow?.."

Lieberman?s says growth will also depend upon fostering high tech industries and a stronger workforce?..To that end?.the senator promised to ensure the nation is wired to high speed internet by 2010?.Lieberman also proposes a public-private partnership to foster advanced manufacturing research and development??And to offer 1500 dollar a year scholarships for people seeking job training.