H.R. 3548, Unemployment Compensation Act Of 2009

Floor Speech

H.R. 3548, Unemployment Compensation Act Of 2009

* Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, on September 22, 2009 the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3548, the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2009 with my support. I voted for H.R. 3548, legislation that would extend unemployment benefits by 13 weeks for states with unemployment rates in excess of 8.5%. Our nation is currently facing significant economic challenges, including the highest unemployment rates in over twenty years. With nearly five million Americans and 290,000 Virginians out of work, I believe extending unemployment benefits was the right thing to do.

* Several localities in Virginia's First Congressional District experienced unemployment above 8% this summer. However, I am disappointed that H.R. 3548 would not extend benefits in Virginia because the states unemployment rate is currently below 7%. This bill's 8% threshold needlessly overlooks struggling families in Virginia. I would like to see this measure amended to extend the same unemployment benefits to all Americans regardless of where they live.

* I understand that unemployment is putting significant strains on local families. That's why I recently hosted a First District Job Fair featuring state, federal, and private employers. Hundreds of First District residents attended the successful job fair and are now on their way into the workforce.

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