Jobs and the Economy

As a member of the Small Business Committee, Senator Landrieu has fought hard to protect the backbone of Louisiana's economy. She has been endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and has been recognized by the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Landrieu has also been awarded the Small Business Council of America's Congressional Award and the Chamber of Southwest Louisiana's ''Legis-Gator of the Year'' award.

In 2007, Landrieu co-sponsored legislation to significantly bolster investments in math and science research and education to improve U.S. competitiveness in the global economy. Senator Landrieu also secured significant funding for technology and research at universities across Louisiana.

Senator Landrieu has also used her seniority in the Senate and her position on the Appropriations Committee to bring Louisiana key resources that spark economic development. For example:

• Senator Landrieu secured funding for the Northeast Louisiana Business and Community Development Center, a joint venture between the University of Monroe and the Louisiana Small Business Development Center.
  
  
• Senator Landrieu fought hard to make Barksdale Air Force Base the permanent home of the Air Force Cyber Command. Barksdale is the largest employer in the Shreveport-Bossier area.
  
  
• Landrieu secured $400,000 for the Louisiana Immersive Technology Enterprise program at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The center is tasked with developing technology used for military training.

Senator Landrieu has been a strong advocate for community development and smart growth. In 2007, she secured $2 million for the Center for Planning Excellence to promote smart growth. Senator Landrieu fought to improve the Empowerment Zone program which aims to attract and retain businesses in rural impoverished areas.

Senator Landrieu also fights hard for tax relief for Louisiana businesses. In 2008, the National Taxpayers Union praised Landrieu for breaking with her party to oppose new taxes on energy companies. Senator Landrieu was the only Senate Democrat to vote against the taxes. She has also supported measures to extend the research and development tax credit.

Senator Landrieu has repeatedly introduced legislation that would eliminate the estate tax for 99.9 percent of Louisiana businesses.