NCJW Applauds Renewal of Unemployment Benefits, Calls for Passage of Other Urgent Funding
July 21, 2010, Washington, DC — The National Council of Jewish Women today commended the Senate for finally extending federal unemployment benefits, while pointing out that they must do more to meet the needs of struggling families and communities. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
“NCJW applauds the Senate for passing a long-overdue extension of federal unemployment benefits. Today’s vote marks the end of what has been unprecedented and shameful opposition to these critical benefits. Never before has it been so difficult to extend unemployment benefits while the jobless rate exceeded nine percent. For the more than two million whose benefits had already expired due to nearly three months of congressional inaction, the bill passed by the Senate today will provide much-needed relief.
“Unfortunately, in order to win the 60 votes needed to restore unemployment benefits, several other much-needed economic proposals were dropped — in particular, additional funding for state Medicaid programs. These dollars are absolutely essential if states are to avoid additional budget cuts on top of the draconian measures many have already made.
“In addition, $1 billion for youth jobs, $2.5 billion for another year of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Emergency Fund, and $1.065 billion for the new National Housing Trust Fund are also urgently needed to moderate the impact of the recession and ensure a shared economic recovery.”
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Contact:Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 × 5; emily@ncjwdc.org