This is a targeted, temporary, and timely measure to put people back to work and jumpstart the economy? Yeah, and I’m the Easter Bunny. Or maybe harvest mouse.

House Republicans are challenging Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s claim that the massive stimulus spending bill contains no pet projects after uncovering in the bill more than $30 million for wetlands conservation in her San Francisco Bay area district, including work she previously championed to protect the salt marsh harvest mouse.

“This sounds like spending projects that have been supported by a certain powerful Democrat in the past,” said Michael Steel, spokesman for House Minority Leader John A. Boehner, Ohio Republican.

“It certainly doesn’t sound like it will create or save American jobs,” he said. “So can Speaker Pelosi explain exactly how we will improve the American economy by helping the adorable little” critter?

By the way, Pelosi denies putting the provision in the bill. She just happens to to champion the cause and the money will just happen to be spent in her district. Maybe Tom Rooney of Florida put it in there because she was just so gosh-darn nice to him.

Exit question: Exactly how many harvest mice will be put back to work as a result of the $30 million?