Smith Opposes Extension of Federal Emergency Unemployment Benefits without Reform

Statement

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) opposes President Obama's request for a 13th extension of the Federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program without reforms or a means to pay for the program. The EUC program paid jobless benefits to those who had already exhausted state unemployment programs, and was intended to be an emergency measure after the financial crisis of 2008.

"We need to move beyond indefinite extensions of temporary programs and focus on policies which will actually help grow the economy and create jobs," said Congressman Smith.

"We must continue to help families in need, however history and research show extended unemployment benefits hurt job creation. After six years and hundreds of billions of dollars spent with little to show for it, we clearly need a new approach. Any extension of this program must be paid for, and should include reforms to wind down the program or otherwise encourage economic growth.

"My colleagues and I have offered solutions to get our economy moving, but the White House isn't listening. If the Senate is serious about helping unemployed Americans, it should consider the dozens of bills passed by the House which would reduce government-imposed barriers to job creation and help more get back to work."

Smith is a member of the Committee on Ways and Means which has jurisdiction over federal unemployment programs.

Source