Senate Democrats Lead Successful Fight to Bring 3000 Jobs to North Carolina

North Carolina Senate Democrats recently passed legislation that will create nearly 3,000 jobs for  North Carolinians as Apple Computers comes to the state.  Construction on the new computer data center is expected to begin as soon as a suitable location is found.  The bill requires the center to be built in an economically distressed location.

“The bottom line right now is North Carolinians need jobs.  This legislation will put thousands of our citizens back to work,” remarked Senator David Hoyle, a leading advocate for the bill.  “If we don’t pass this bill, Apple takes the 3000 jobs and the $1 billion dollar investment right up I-85 out of the state.”  An Apple spokeswoman confirmed that the company was also looking at building the data center in Virginia.

“In the end,” said Senator Tony Foriest, the bill’s only co-sponsor, “Apple chose North Carolina because we have the best business climate among all the locations they looked at.  We’re seeing the effects of creating a business-friendly atmosphere in our state. ”

Estimates by the North Carolina Department of Commerce say approximately 50 people will work directly for Apple, while the other jobs could be staffed by local contractors.  The bill received tremendous support in the Senate, where it passed 40-8, with all voting Senate Democrats supporting the bill.