WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) today offered the following statement regarding House passage of H.R. 4213, the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act, extending unemployment benefits for millions of Americans who have been impacted by the economic crisis of the last few years.  The Act will provide benefits through the end of November, and will retroactively restore benefits to those who have been without aid since late May due to Senate Republican obstruction.

“I am proud to be able to finally offer the millions of Americans still looking for work this extension of unemployment benefits.  This funding is an important bridge for those who are still looking for work in an economy where there are over five unemployed workers for every one job opening.  We look forward to the President signing this Act into law, and hopefully States will act quickly to provide these benefits to their citizens. 

“It is unconscionable that the same Senate Republicans who are now seeking to extend massive tax breaks for the wealthy, stood in the way of much-needed assistance for average Americans for nearly two months, leaving over 2.5 million people without benefits.   Today those families can breathe a little easier as they can put food on the table, keep a roof over their heads, and pay their bills, all while they continue their search for employment.

“We must remember, however, that this legislation is only a temporary measure.  While it buys important time, we remain committed to finding long-term solutions that put Americans back to work and get our country moving again.”