    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [May 28, 2004]
    [Page 941]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the National Economy
    May 28, 2004

        One year ago today, I signed into law the jobs and growth tax relief
    package to jump-start the economic recovery and create jobs for American
    workers. With our economy growing at the fastest pace in nearly 20 years
    and more than 1.1 million more Americans working since last August, it
    is clear the tax relief is working.
        Take-home pay for workers is up, and disposable income for families
    has increased to record levels. The incentives in our plan for small
    businesses are producing results as more manufacturers have been
    reporting increased activity and new orders than at any time in 20
    years. I am encouraged to see that the unemployment rate has fallen in
    47 of 50 States, because we want everyone who wants to work to be able
    to find a job.
        There is more to do. We must continue to build on this success by
    expanding growth and increasing prosperity for all Americans. I look
    forward to working with Congress to pass my six-point plan for economic
    growth, including making the tax cuts permanent, and to ensure that our
    workers have the skills to compete in the changing world.