The federal stimulus plan has created thousands of jobs in Oregon.

The State of Oregon recently released a report that found the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has created and preserved more than 8,000 full-time jobs throughout the state since February.

"With this report, I can say with full confidence that the Recovery Act provided Oregon a much needed parachute for what was a free falling economy," Gov. Ted Kulongoski said.

Not only did the ARRA create several jobs immediately after it was created, but it also helped thousands of state residents secure food stamps, unemployment benefits and funding for education.

Overall, Oregon is expecting to receive $3.9 billion in ARRA funding during a three-year period. Of that, about $1 billion has been expended, with only $269 million falling within new federal reporting requirements.

"This investment in states across the nation represents not only an unprecedented infusion of dollars to the state and local economies," the Kulongoski said. "It also represents an unprecedented level of public transparency and accountability for how those dollars are invested."

Oregon also recently launched a Web site that provides details about quarterly reports to the federal government as part of a plan for commitment to transparency and accountability for ARRA funding.

"With our new Web site, you can see that thousands of Oregonians in every corner of the state have been touched by the Recovery Act," Kulongoski added. "Whether through food stamps, unemployment benefits or helping keep our school doors open - thousands of Oregonians have received a helping hand from our federal partners to help minimize the pain caused by this difficult economic period."

Labels: Jobs in Oregon