Date: January 29, 2019
Contact: mediacenter@freeandfairmarketsinitiative.org
They Said It!
Virginia Lawmakers And Advocates Blast Amazon HQ2 Package Fast-Tracked Through Legislature
$750 Million Taxpayer-Funded Package Debated For 9 Minutes Before Passage
Del. Alfonso H. Lopez: “Folks are worried that they and the other low-income families are going to be priced out of the area’s homeowning and rental markets. I’m concerned about the impact on my community and our residents now, not on the benefits that we might see in five, seven and 10 years.” (The Washington Post, “Virginia House approves $750 million in Amazon subsidies after 9 minutes of debate,” Robert McCartney, 1.28.19)
Del. Lee Carter: “Life will get worse for many of my constituents. You’re asking us to pay for the privilege of making our own lives worse.” (Richmond Times-Dispatch, “Amazon incentives bill on way to governor after House passage,” Michael Martz, 1.28.19)
Danny Cendejas, La ColectiVa Oragnizer: “This is going to be a multiyear fight. We will have time to build up and oppose giving away money to corporations and invest in our communities instead.” (The Washington Post, “Virginia House approves $750 million in Amazon subsidies after 9 minutes of debate,” Robert McCartney, 1.28.19)
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ABOUT THE FREE & FAIR MARKETS INITIATIVE
The Free & Fair Markets Initiative (FFMI) is a non-profit coalition of businesses, consumer advocacy groups, workers and community activists committed to scrutinizing and highlighting emerging market trends that are stifling competition and innovation, influencing federal and local government spending, putting consumer data in harm’s way and limiting consumer choice. For a list of members, please visit https://freeandfairmarketsinitiative.org/about-us/members/. For more information on the Free & Fair Markets Initiative, please visit https://freeandfairmarketsinitiative.org.
