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Update on extended benefits - During the first week of February, the House of Representatives actually voted for the extension - but it is unfunded as of yet. It was included as an amendment to another bill and got through that way. With a large majority yes vote - something like 79 Republicans joined Democrats in this yes vote.

The problem still remains that the President and/or Senate still have to act. This would be a good time to contact Voinovich (who has voted for extension in the past) or DeWine. They are enjoying yet another taxpayer funded vacation this week, and there may be town hall meetings somewhere in the State of Ohio where this question can be put to them.

I called both offices last week - DeWine's was noncommital, Voinovich's said he has voted for extension in the past. The day I called, Senator Cantwell (Democrat) had attempted to bring a bill to a vote in the Senate to extend benefits. The Republicans defeated it procedurally and it didn't come up for a yes/no vote on the floor of the Senate.

The House is not as sanguine as the Senate because, of course, all House Representatives are up for re-election in November. They could very publicly break ranks with the White House to save their jobs - but only if the taxpayers pressure them to do so.

With $20 BILLION sitting in a trust fund dedicated to extended benefits - this situation is inexcusable and disgraceful.
posted by edie to politics at 12:14 P.M. EST     (No Comments)

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