Democrats finally break through Republican obstructionism
WITH AMERICANS struggling to find jobs, unemployment insurance has been a lifeline that helps cover the basics of everyday living until people can get back on their feet. Even so, Republicans have repeatedly blocked efforts to extend unemployment benefits to 2.5 million people.
That obstructionism came to an end July 21 when the Senate passed the $34 billion measure with the minimum of 60 yes votes. The House had previously approved the bill 272-152. President Obama signed the extension on July 23.
Benefits will be retroactive to June 2 and will expire November 30 of this year.
During debate over the bill, Democrats argued that, unlike tax cuts for the wealthy, unemployment benefits get promptly spent on necessities and thus contributes to economic activity and the jobs others hold. For every $1 spent on unemployment benefits, the economy gains $1.61, according to Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.
