MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The Republican caucuses of Alabama's House and Senate have endorsed a package of bills designed to lower the state's nearly 10 percent unemployment rate by addressing everything from tax incentives offered to new industries to the hiring veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq.

"Our number one priority is boosting private sector job growth in Alabama," House Speaker Mike Hubbard of Auburn said at a news conference Wednesday.

Hubbard and Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh of Anniston said both caucuses have unanimously endorsed an eight-bill package that they expect to pass in the session that starts Feb. 7. Republicans have a super majority in both houses.

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