Arkansas News Bureau

LITTLE ROCK — A 2nd District congressional candidate today proposed converting federal and state fleets to compressed natural gas to help promote economic growth.

Democrat Robbie Wills of Conway, the House speaker, unveiled a five-point plan aimed at helping to create jobs that he said he would promote if elected to Congress.

“The Fayetteville Shale natural gas play is a global opportunity located right here in Arkansas,” Wills said in a news release. “For me, it’s about Arkansas jobs, clean energy, economic and even national security.”

Wills is among five Democrats seeking the congressional seat held by retiring U.S. Rep. Vic Snyder, D-Little Rock. Two Republicans also are running for the office.

Wills’ proposal also calls for increasing class capacity and technology infrastructure at the state’s two-year colleges;, creating small business startup savings accounts and new hire incentives; and doubling small business start up tax deductions.

He also called for encouraging more exports of Arkansas goods, and more investment in infrastructure expansion.