House Democrats seek minor changes to jobs legislation ahead of Thursday vote

House Democratic leaders are seeking minor changes to the $15 billion Senate jobs bill to pave the way for passage Thursday.

Prior to the vote, members will consider an amendment that would address concerns of centrist and liberal House members.

The amendment seeks to extend by one year a corporate interest tax provision set to expire in 2019. Fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats complained the Senate hadn't found specific ways to pay for the entire $15 billion cost of the measure.

The amendment also requires a certain amount of federal highway trust fund projects go toward small businesses owned by "socially and economically disadvantaged individuals."

Liberals complained the measure wouldn't do much to cut the 9.7 unemployment rate, which is higher in urban areas.

Congressional Black Caucus members had called for new government programs that would directly hire and train workers.

Black lawmakers had yet to fully embrace the jobs bill when leaving a meeting with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.).

"There are many concerns with it," Rep. Donald Payne (D-N.J.) told The Hill.

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