Etheridge proposes $448 million for North Carolina. He says it wouldn't just mean new schools. He estimates it would create or sustain 10,752 jobs in the state.
Etheridge is the only N.C. member of the House Ways and Means Committee, meaning he has some say in how economic recovery money is spent.
Last Wednesday, Etheridge asked President-Elect Obama to include his proposal to provide tax credits to fund local school construction in the economic recovery plan.
Etheridge says work could start as early as 30 days after the legislation becomes law, creating an immediate economic benefit.