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Ellison Praises Emergency Unemployment Benefits Extension

Statement

Date: July 22, 2010
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Unemployed and Low-Income Entitlements and the Safety Net Government Budget and Spending

Congressman Keith Ellison (DFL-Minneapolis) released the following statement following his vote for H.R. 4213, Unemployment Compensation Extension Act, which restores emergency unemployment benefits to 2.5 million American families, including over 21,000 in Minnesota, after a 7-week lapse:

I proudly voted to restore and extend emergency unemployment benefits to millions of Americans who are looking for a job. For the thousands of Minnesotans looking for work, this emergency insurance means being able to provide shelter for their families and put food on the table. Further, the research is clear, unemployment benefits are a proven boost to our economy. For every dollar spent in unemployment insurance, we see $1.60 in economic activity.

Sadly, Republicans in the U.S. House and Senate, who exploded our national debt with tax cuts for the wealthy and two unpaid-for wars, have blocked this economic lifeline for Americans seeking work.

I remain concerned about long-term deficits, but right now, our families need to pay rent and feed their children.


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