Heinrich Votes To Restore Emergency Unemployment Benefits For New Mexicans, Urges House To Act Immediately

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) voted to pass a bill to restore the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program that expired for thousands of New Mexican job-seekers.

"Restoring emergency unemployment benefits will help thousands of New Mexicans get back on their feet as they look for work. These benefits are often families' only economic lifeline to make ends meet during difficult times," said Sen. Heinrich. "I urge the House to act immediately to restore these benefits for those who need them most. Failing to act will take a toll not only on New Mexicans who are actively looking for a job, but will also have negative consequences for housing market and the broader economy." 

The proposal would retroactively restore benefits for those who lost their unemployment insurance on December 28, 2013 and extends them through May 31, 2014.

The bill passed the Senate with an 59 to 38 vote and now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.