Laid-off Workers Need Unemployment Benefits

Take action to support real relief for laid-off workers.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject:

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to ask you to support the amendment proposed by Sen. Durbin to increase relief for laid-off workers in the economic stimulus bill that is pending on the Senate floor. On Jan. 29, the Durbin amendment won 57 votes and is expected to be offered again the week of Feb. 4.

Our nation's unemployment rate is increasing, yet Congress has not provided relief to laid-off workers and their families. Thousands of families are losing needed unemployment benefits before they are able to find work. Thousands more don't qualify for unemployment benefits because they worked only part-time.

America's workers need the relief provided by the Durbin amendment, including: * At least 13 additional weeks of unemployment benefits for all unemployed workers who exhaust their regular benefits, * A modest additional weekly benefit for all unemployed workers, * Unemployment benefits for part-time and low-wage workers who have paid into the unemployment system but do not qualify for aid in many states * And additional funds to help state unemployment systems cope with the anticipated surge in claims.

I strongly support these provisions in the Durbin amendment and urge you to vote for it.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
January 25, 2002


Background Information

On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate will vote on whether to improve economic stimulus legislation so it really helps laid-off workers--not just Big Business and the rich. Although our nation's unemployment rate has skyrocketed, Congress has yet to pass legislation that would provide relief to America's laid-off workers and their families.

Senate Republicans are fighting an amendment to the legislation that would help laid-off workers. The proposal introduced by Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) would extend and increase unemployment benefits. In the last three months of 2001 more than 735,000 workers used up all of their unemployment benefits without finding work. This legislation would help those workers and other families who will lose their jobs in the coming months. The Senate Republicans would rather have more tax breaks for corporations and the wealthy.

It is urgent that your senators hear from you today. Take a few minutes right now to fax your senators on this issue by clicking on the link below.