WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth), Vice Chair of the Republican Conference, today spoke at a press conference with fellow Members of the Republican House leadership about the need for a speedy economic stimulus package, with Granger highlighting the important role women play in the U.S. economy.

“I don’t think many people appreciate the widespread and important role women play in the economy – they are the mothers, small business owners, homeowners and workers. They truly make up the backbone of our economy,” said Granger.  

According to the Center for Women’s Business Research, in 2006, two out of every five businesses in the country were projected to be women-owned. These firms were estimated to generate $1.9 trillion in annual sales and employ 12.8 million people nationwide. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that women comprised 46 percent of the total U.S. labor force in 2006. According to the National Association of Realtors, single women are the fastest-growing group of homeowners in recent years.

“When we’re talking about stimulus plan options, we need to be factoring women into the equation and considering the impact it will have on them,” said Granger. “I’ve been encouraging Members to listen to women back home to hear what their biggest concerns are. Can they pay their childcare? Their healthcare? Can they expand their payroll? These are real concerns we all need to take into account as we move forward with a package,” added Granger.