July 2010

U.S. Congress Does Not Renew Federal Extensions to Unemployment Insurance Benefits

So far, the U.S. Congress has not passed legislation allowing the renewal of federal extensions to unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. In addition, the emergency extended unemployment insurance benefits allowed by prior federal legislation are phasing out.

This includes all four tiers of the federal emergency unemployment compensation (EUC08) benefit program, state extended benefits (EB), and the federal additional compensation (FAC) $25 weekly payment.

According to the U. S. Department of Labor, a little more than 1.3 million people already have lost benefits since the last extension ran out at the end of May. By the end of July, that number would top 3 million if federal legislation is not passed.

The federal government has sole authority to extend these programs. The Missouri Legislature and Missouri Labor Department cannot extend them. The U.S. Congress is debating legislation to create further extensions. If another extension occurs after individuals exhaust their benefits, the Division of Employment Security (DES) will notify them by mail if they qualify for additional benefits.

For additional program information, please visit moclaim.mo.gov. The Department will provide updates regarding federal extensions as they arise.