Nevada was hit hard by our nation’s economic downturn, but there are encouraging signs that indicate the economy is recovering. However, many Nevadans still struggle to find work, which is why we must remain focused on creating jobs. I have worked to pass common-sense laws that strengthen Boulder City’s economy, and Nevada’s economy overall.

President Obama recently laid out a series of legislative priorities to help invigorate America’s small business community and middle class.  I share President Obama’s belief that we need to act on these job-creating proposals and I hope Republicans will join us in these efforts.

President Obama outlined priorities that would strengthen our economic recovery. One of the items the President advanced is a tax cut to spur small business hiring. The legislation provides tax credits to small businesses that increase their payrolls and faster write-offs for those that invest in new equipment.

And taking advantage of Nevada’s clean energy potential will create jobs in Nevada. Boulder City has begun to benefit from clean energy projects already deployed, and more investment in clean energy manufacturing will secure cheaper and cleaner sources of power for Nevadans.

We must also maintain our commitment to hiring veterans when they return home from service. There are 230,000 veterans that currently reside throughout Nevada, and they are prepared with skills that will meet the demands of high technology and emerging industries.

I championed the passage of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (HIRE Act) and the Vow to Hire Heroes Act. Both measures offer tax breaks to encourage small business expansion, and the latter encourages hiring veterans in particular. I also led passage of the Small Business Jobs Act in 2010, which provided $15 billion in tax relief and hundreds of millions in loans to small businesses. And I strongly support the proposal to give a 10 percent tax credit to businesses that increase their payrolls in 2012.

I have worked hard to create jobs for Nevadans, and I will continue to work with President Obama on passing measures that will strengthen Boulder City’s economy.

Contact Harry Reid at http://reid.senate.gov/