"I applaud the Senate's passage of House legislation extending unemployment insurance for Americans suffering in this recession. The legislation extends benefits by seven weeks, and by 13 additional weeks in the hardest-hit states. With more Americans filing jobless claims than at any time since 1992, it is essential that President Bush sign the bill immediately, as he has indicated he will do.

 

"But this effort, important as it is, is not enough. Comprehensive economic recovery legislation--including funding for job-creating infrastructure projects and aid to states in danger of cutting vital services--must be at the top of the Congressional agenda."