NRF ask Congress to consider 2nd stimulus package

WASHINGTON The National Retail Federation is urging Congress to hold a lame duck session to address the nation’s economy as soon as possible after the November elections, and to include tax relief for consumers in any economic stimulus package that is adopted.

“The United States is in the midst of a national crisis,” NRF president and ceo Tracy Mullin said. “Extraordinary measures are needed to address this profound economic emergency that has affected every American.” 

“Consumer confidence has been badly eroded by the foundering economy and instability of the financial markets,” Mullin said. “Because consumer spending represents two-thirds of GDP and supports tens of millions of jobs, it is difficult if not impossible to foresee an improvement in overall economic growth until consumer confidence and spending improve.” 

Mullin said she believes a second round of stimulus checks would provide a much-needed boost in consumer spending.

Mullin’s comments came in a letter sent today to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.; House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.