Abstract:
Congress and President Obama designed the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) to preserve
and create jobs, assist people in need, and stabilize state and local government budgets. The Act also directs
federal investments towards projects that provide for longer-term economic benefits such as infrastructure
and environmental protection. Between its passage in February 2009 and March 15, 2010, the federal government
has awarded over $21.5 billion in ARRA-funded contracts and nearly $237 billion in ARRA-funded grants
and agreements. During this time, the 11 western states have received approximately 20% of the total ARRA funds awarded.