"I thought that an extension for unemployment insurance should have been an original component of the economic stimulus package passed earlier this year," said Michaud.  "Extending this benefit not only helps those in most need, it is also something that would directly stimulate the economy.  I am pleased that Congress is moving this legislation, but I just wish it didn't have to take a high unemployment rate to do it."

The unemployment rate has surged to 5.5 percent from 5.0 percent -- the biggest one-month jump in more than two decades (since February 1986) and climbing to the highest level in nearly four years (October 2004).  The unemployment rate is now a full percentage point higher than a year ago.  Under the bill, extended unemployment benefits would run through March 2009 and benefit 3.8 million Americans.  Federal unemployment trust funds, which have more than enough reserves to cover the cost, will finance these benefits.

"People in Maine and throughout our country are struggling to make ends meet," said Michaud.  "Increasing fuel and food prices, combined with a housing market downturn and the high cost of health care, are pushing many family budgets past the breaking point. This is the least that Congress can do during these difficult economic times."