WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) calls on the Senate to pass  legislation urgently needed to propel America’s economic recovery. The measures that must be passed include extensions of unemployment and COBRA benefits, funding for the National Housing Trust Fund, expanded career training, tax cuts for working class families, and a restoration of credit programs for small businesses. All of these measures passed the House, but are languishing in the Senate.

Commenting on extended unemployment benefits, Congresswoman Fudge stated, "It's cruel to play politics by refusing to extend unemployment benefits and "blame the victims. Too many Americans have lost their jobs through no fault of their own and the job outlook, especially in Ohio, remains bleak. Too many families rely on this aid for Congress not to act."

In Ohio, which has an unemployment rate of 10.7%, these measures would:

•    Grant 86,100 Ohioans extended unemployment and COBRA benefits through November;
•    Offset college costs for 153,122 students through tax deductions;
•    Reduce taxes for 128,896 school teachers, and
•    Provide $42,118,883 for youth summer jobs in high unemployment areas.