Extension Update 090911

The American Jobs Act and You

Last night, September 8th, 2011, President Obama addressed Congress and the nation, unveiling his new stimulus plan: The American Jobs Act.

What does this plan entail, when will it be implemented, and, most importantly, how does it impact you?

New Jobs

The primary focus of the American Jobs Acts is new jobs. Specifically, the President highlighted four areas where the program will stimulate job creation:

  • Construction: Projects to improve basic infrastructure, roads, and schools will help employ thousands of workers in construction related fields.
  • Teachers: Aid to state and local governments will help keep teachers employed by using funds to prevent layoffs.
  • Veterans: Businesses will be given tax credits for hiring returning veterans.
  • Long-Term Unemployed: Employers will receive a $4,000 tax credit for hiring long-term unemployed workers. Note: They are defining “long-term” as six months or more.

Extension of Unemployment Benefits

Another important aspect of the American Jobs Act is an extension of unemployment benefits until the end of 2012. This extension continues the benefits put in place last year (up to 99 weeks of total benefits, depending on your state). These extensions were set to expire at the end of 2011.

At the present time, additional weeks beyond the 99 week total have not yet been discussed as part of this program.

What’s Next?

In order for the changes proposed in the American Jobs Act to take effect, Congress must pass the legislation. President Obama expects there to be support for the program from both Democrats and Republicans. That said, it is fair to assume there will be some debate on various aspects of the proposals leading up to the voting, which is expected to take place this month.

 

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Important: Did You Know?

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* According to a recent survey by the Society of Human Resources Management

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Unemployment Update 082611

Unemployment Update – August 26, 2011: The Debate Over Unemployment Extensions Continues

While major events such as Libya, earthquakes, hurricanes, and the stock market are dominating the news, the discussion of unemployment benefits has received less coverage recently. Nevertheless, unemployment continues to impact the lives of millions of Americans, and deserves attention.

Below are a few important updates regarding unemployement benefits.

Unemployment Compensation for Striking Workers

Workers who walk of the job are typically not eligible for unemployment benefits. Some states have made exceptions to this, however. As such, the new claims for unemployment benefits recently went up, as thousands of striking Verizon workers filed for unemployment benefits.

Congress Continues the Debate Over Unemployment Extensions

The debate in Congress over unemployment benefits retains the theme that has persisted over the last couple of years:

  • Democrats want to maintain unemployment extensions, or add additional extensions.
  • Republicans want to reduce extensions, or at least find a way to fund the extensions without adding to the national debt.

This debate will likely persist until new legislation is agreed upon.

Tier 5 Benefits?

Millions of “99ers” have exhausted their 99 weeks of unemployment insurance (note: in some states fewer weeks were available). Representatives Barbara Lee and Bobby Scott continue to fight for their proposed Tier 5 bill, H.R. 589 – The Emergency Unemployment Extension Act – which would add up to 14 weeks of additional benefits. They argue that unemployment benefits act as a stimulus to the economy, as Americans who receive benefits generally spend this money, therefore putting it back into the economy.

A New Jobs Program?

President Obama is expected to annouce a new jobs program after Labor Day. The details of this program are unknown, but analysts have suggested that it may entail infrastructure projects or job re-training.

What’s Next?

Congress is out for “recess” through the end of this month, with many politicians on vacation. They return to work in September, at which point debates will resume, and more details should emerge regarding new legislation and programs.

 

We will continue to keep you updated on these and other unemployment-related items, as information becomes available.

 

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Category: News, Unemployment, Unemployment Extension

Help Wanted: Stories of Unemployment

In an effort to show the true impact of joblessness, The Washington Post asked six unemployment-affected families (five unemployed people and one fiance of an unemployed man) to participate in a unique project.

The six contributors, a diverse pool from across the country and socioeconomic spectrum, are writing frequent entries about their experiences throughout the summer of 2011. Among the topics covered, the participants are writing about their struggles to pay the bills, preserve relationships and maintain hope for the future.

The “Help Wanted: Stories of Unemployment” project also features audio testimonials from other unemployed Americans and other features.

 

Also, you can find an expanded description of the Help Wanted project here.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Tags: , | Category: News, Unemployment
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