There is an unemployment extension bill that was voted on yesterday in the Senate. The bill would permit unemployed workers, in states with highest unemployment rates, to once again receive up to ninety-nine weeks of aid. Benefits would be renewed retroactively from June 2, and would be offered to workers through the end of November.

The bill, according to Gregg Hirt and Sara Murray of the Wall Street Journal online, “cleared a hurdle in the Senate Tuesday, ending weeks of stalemate that had led to the expiration of federal aid to millions of jobless Americans amid a debate on the legislation’s cost. In a vote chiefly along party lines that highlighted concerns over how to pay for the bill, the Senate broke a filibuster led by Republicans and set the stage for a full Senate vote on the legislation, which could come as soon as Wednesday. It is expected to pass the Senate and would need approval by the House, which is also expected. President Barack Obama is expected to sign it into law swiftly after it arrives at the White House.”

Congress allowed long-term benefits to lapse in June, leaving more than 2.5 million unemployed cut off from benefits. Despite the slowly improving labor market, the country’s unemployment rate is still at 9.5%. Almost half of all unemployed workers have been without a job for greater than half a year. Obviously, this has pushed many people into a desperate economic condition with the only reasonable choice being to file bankruptcy.

If you have any questions or are considering filing bankruptcy please feel free to contact me. Kevin D. Heupel, Colorado Bankruptcy lawyer, 303-955-7570, COBankruptcyHelpEmail, free-consultation form. I will answer your questions without obligation. Remember, I am here to help.