Lawmakers have agreed on legislation to extend expanded unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed through the end of the year.
http://news.yahoo.com/...
There is not a lot of info in the article, but what it does say is great news for many in the country! Also included in the bill is an extension for COBRA as well as a one year extension for some 50 or so tax cuts that expired last year.
House leaders plan to vote on the bill Friday, with the Senate voting next week.
Barring any shenanigans from the 'Pubs, of course. This is truly excellent news (and not for John McCain) for all those who continue to feel the brunt of the "jobless recovery". One of the things that makes this recession stand out from others in the past is the length of individual unemployment. Too many people are going for years with no job, or are underemployed and still need help to cover the basics of food and shelter.
I'm heartened to see Congress address this issue and help the American People instead of themselves and their cronies for a change. I really did not think this would go through, as all indications pointed otherwise.
UPDATE
More Info Here
It is to be noted that any action taken, if acted upon at all, by Congress will affect only those currently within the unemployment extension system facing the expiration of their unemployment benefits. The group known as the "99ers" still have a long way to go to be heard on Capitol Hill.
This bill does NOT address those who are in the "5th Tier". While any extension is great, and many people will benefit from it, it does not address the dire needs of those who face the end of their benefits completely and are facing an uncertain and very scary future.
Call, email, write to Levin and as many others as you can! Tell them to keep up the good work on unemployment, and ADD THE 5TH TIER!!! These people need help!!
Carl Levin:
269 Russell Office Building
U.S. Senate
Washington, DC 20510-2202
Phone (202) 224-6221
Fax (202) 224-1388
TTY (202) 224-2816
8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Email Here