Rep. Markey Votes to Extend Unemployment Benefits

Representative Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), the dean of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R 6419, The Emergency Unemployment Compensation Continuation Act, a bill to extend temporary unemployment insurance:

“Americans who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own could lose critical unemployment insurance benefits as we enter the holiday season. That is unconscionable,” said Markey.

“Republicans are standing in the way of the extension of benefits that are urgently needed by millions of Americans in the midst of the worst economy since the Great Depression. Republicans in Congress are eager to spend lavishly on tax breaks for the fortunate few, but stingy when it comes to helping the middle class make ends meet. It is time for Republicans to support Democrats in passing this critical legislation to help hardworking Americans through these tough economic times.”

According to an analysis prepared by the House of Representatives’ Committee on Ways and Means, over 79,700 Massachusetts claimants could lose unemployment benefits if Congress fails to act.

– Information from Rep. Markey (D-Malden)