Senate votes to extend aid for Oregonians about to lose UI benefits
February 5th, 2010
Senate Bill 990 allows six week extension for about 18,600 unemployed
An estimated 18,600 out-of-work Oregonians who were about to lose unemployment benefits will receive a six-week extension because of a bill passed this morning in the Oregon Senate. Senate Bill 990, a key part of the Oregon Senate Democrats’ agenda for the February session, passed the chamber by a unanimous vote.
“The most important thing the Oregon legislature can do right now is to provide meaningful help for hardworking Oregonians who are struggling to survive in this difficult economy,” said Senator Diane Rosenbaum (D-Portland), who carried the bill on the floor. “The emergency unemployment benefits in this bill will allow thousands of Oregon families to put food on the table and a roof over their heads while they continue to look for work.”
The unemployment extension in SB 990 has the added benefit of providing dollars that go directly into local communities. Checks are often used to pay rent and buy groceries and other essentials.
“The fact that this is the first bill to be voted on the Senate floor this session is an indication of our priorities – getting people back to work,” said Senate Majority Leader Richard Devlin (D-Tualatin). “During this short session, we will continue to focus on what matters most to Oregonians – creating jobs, helping families make ends meet, and supporting our struggling businesses.”
SB 990 will not affect current employer rates or the unemployment insurance trust fund balance. The extension is estimated to last until mid-April.
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Tags: SB 990, Senator Diane Rosenbaum, Senator Richard Devlin, Unemployment Extension
