Holden proposes job-creation plan

Associated Press WriterJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Gov. Bob Holden proposed a plan Tuesday to create thousands of new jobs in Missouri by investing in community infrastructure projects, such as water and telecommunication systems.

Holden said his plan, called Jobs Now, will be his priority in the legislative session that begins Jan. 7.

He said the plan would take no additional state money, but would eliminate or change some tax credit programs and use the money saved to issue up to $200 million in bonds for projects in infrastructure or research, especially in life sciences.

Holden said the plan would enable the state to capitalize on its recent positive economic news and ensure Missouri communities can lure and keep good jobs well into the future.

"Jobs Now will quickly create quality jobs and have a strong and lasting impact," he said.

He said meetings around the state to discuss education and jobs convinced him that local communities need help with building basic infrastructure that attracts and keeps businesses.

"Many Missouri communities cannot build or complete the public infrastructure improvements they need," he said.

He encouraged the Republican-led Legislature to support his plan "so we can secure the economic futures of Missouri's families, businesses and communities."