Extending Assistance for Unemployed Americans

"I want to comment on one of the statements [Majority Leader Cantor] made, which I agree, in which, Mr. Speaker, he just told us, again I agree: 'America doesn't work if middle class families are taking home less.'

I’m pleased that this week Congress passed legislation to ensure that America can pay its bills, providing certainty and stability for our nation’s economy and businesses.  

“The President came to Congress and gave a State of the Union and said, look, I'm optimistic, we've come a far pace as you've just outlined very well.

“I am so pleased to be here. [Congressman] Keith Ellison was introduced as someone who was there in the heat, he was there in the rain, he was there today – a little warmer right now with the sun – but we’re going to be there.

MESSAGE FROM THE DEMOCRATIC WHIP

Instead of taking action on a number of critical issues, this week House Republicans wasted time on partisan legislation.  They did not bring to the House Floor legislation to renew emergency unemployment insurance, raise the minimum wage, or ensure America pays its bills. All of these items are critically important, and I will continue to urge action.

“It is very disappointing that Senate Republicans continue to block the restoration of emergency unemployment assistance for 1.7 million Americans who are seeking work in a tough job market. 

While Republicans continue to ignore millions of Americans still struggling to find work (some even claiming that “the situation has been dealt with”), a new report from the Economic Policy Institute shows that the percentage of the long-term unemployed remains above pre-recession highs in 41 states.

The fact is that the Senate passed in a very bipartisan way a comprehensive immigration bill.