(Washington, D.C.)–Congressman Jim Langevin today announced his support for legislation that would extend unemployment benefits for over three million Americans and 15,000 Rhode Islanders.  If the Republican-led Congress fails to pass this legislation in the next five days, two million Americans will be denied benefits over the next six months.

The legislation, H.R. 1652, would continue the federal extended benefits program for an additional six months, increase the amount of benefits to 26 weeks and provide coverage for he one million workers who have already exhausted their extended benefits.  The legislation would also expand unemployment insurance coverage for low-wage and part-time workers.

"The dangerous focus in this Congress on tax cuts for the wealthy is hindering economic growth and job creation and ignoring those who truly deserve our attention," said Congressman Langevin.  "We have a responsibility to help those in need, who are battling a stalled economy and weak job market.  This week, Members of Congress can and must do the right thing and extend a helping hand for these struggling families."

In Rhode Island alone, nearly 9,000 unemployed workers will exhaust their state unemployment benefits by November.  Nearly 5,000 will exhaust their federal emergency benefits and still be unemployed by the end of this month, and 2,400 more will exhaust federal benefits over the summer. 

"It is imperative that Congress pass this legislation to extend unemployment benefits before the current program ends," added Langevin.  "Rather than giving the wealthy a break on their 1040’s, we need to help millions of Americans provide for basic living expenses such as food, rent and health care."

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