(Warwick, R.I.) - Congressman Jim Langevin applauded the enactment of legislation to extend unemployment benefits for millions of Americans looking for work.  The measure will help unemployed workers get through the holiday season by extending unemployment benefits for seven additional weeks, and for thirteen weeks in states like Rhode Island with above-average unemployment. 

The House passed the legislation in October, and the Senate followed suit yesterday.  The President signed the bill this morning. 

“The economic downturn is hurting every Rhode Island family,” said Langevin. “It is imperative that we provide relief to workers who are struggling to make ends meet. I am hopeful these extended benefits will see families through as they look for work and prepare for the holidays.”

On Thursday, the government reported the number of workers filing new claims for jobless benefits last week was at its highest level in 16 years. About 1.2 million people would exhaust their unemployment insurance by the end of the year without the extension.  In Rhode Island, the jobless rate continues to soar, reaching 9.3% in October.  Rhode Island and Michigan currently share the highest unemployment rate in the nation. 

-30-