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A 30-day extension of unemployment programs including benefits and health insurance subsidies (COBRA) has been stopped – leaving many wondering what will happen to their benefits.
Nearly 1.2 million unemployed Americans depend on these programs and may lose their benefits this month if an extension isn’t passed before it expires.
As it stands now, tens of thousands of jobless Americans may lose their benefits this week. But it’s not just the unemployed. Other federal programs including highway work and some Medicare extensions have also been halted.
Another bill is being introduced which would extend benefits for another year. A vote could happen as early as this week. While this stalemate may not last, it might be a good idea to save what you can and prepare for the chance that your benefit check isn’t in the mailbox.
Quick Update: Last night the holds on unemployment and health care extensions as well as highway and other projects were voted on and lifted. A decision that will provide millions of Americans with their benefits and aid. Some aspects of the 30-day emergency measure, including a long-term plan, are stilling being discussed.
For more, you can visit The AFP: http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gCkt_8dLL698DFqzT9At8tYbjyOw