Time is running out for millions of Americans and their unemployment benefits. If Congress does not act before the end of June approximately 1.2 million more Americans will lose their unemployment benefits as well as their health insurance (this includes their families)
The current COBRA subsidy helps the unemployed by paying for 65% of their COBRA premiums. Neither the Senate nor the House versions of the HR 4213 tax extenders includes a provision for extending the COBRA subsidy. Without that subsidy a large percentage of Americans will not be able to afford to pay for health insurance.
A number of Senators say they will not vote for the tax extender bills on the basis it adds to the large federal deficit. The unemployment bill has primarily be divided right down the party lines, with neither side willing to budge. Republicans have been arguing that the unused stimulus funds be used to pay for the entire bill. Democrats, on the other hand, did not want to use the stimulus funds.
Unemployed Americans have been voicing their concerns with the Senate’s inability to come to an immediate resolution of the unemployment bill. Only a small handful still sees hope that the Senate will approve an unemployment extension.
Data released by the Department of Labor estimates that nearly two million Americans will be without a job by July 10, 2010.
Another bill is also under debate in the Senate- S.3520 – Unemployment Insurance Extension Act of 2010 - would extend the filing deadline for extended unemployment benefits, including the extra $25 per month from the stimulus bill, from June 2, 2010 to December 31, 2010.
Related posts:
- Unemployment Benefits Extension For 2010 Passed by Congress. Tier 5 Not Approved.
- Another 2010 Home Buyer Credit Extension Approved. December Unemployment Insurance Extension Rejected.
- Unemployment Benefits Extended Again Until June 2 2010 – Push for Extension to End of Year
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I am nearing the end of my Unemployment Insurance extension which will end in two more weeks. The payment that I do receive barely covers the bills, we are greatful. Without the weekly income, we will lose everything. I have been applying online for work and been doing so since July of last year. I have had only three interviews, I’ll find out on Friday whether I get the job that I applied for and interviewed for last week… I hate the waiting. I wish the best to those of you who are trying, like myself. I will say a prayer for you all.
Have a nice day!.