Unemployment benefit extension would help 15,000 Iowans

President Barack Obama accused Republicans Monday of playing politics by blocking a bill that would restore unemployment benefits for millions of out of work Americans.

Of the 115,400 Iowans that are currently unemployed, about 15,000 of them would benefit from Congress passing the unemployment benefits extension bill, according to Kerry Koonce, spokesperson for the Iowa Department of Workforce Development.

Koonce said while the IDWD notified many Iowans that their benefits would be cut off on June 2 due to a lack of federal funding, several of those affected persons have been frustrated with the system.

Kimberly, who asked her last name be kept anonymous, receives about $1400 in unemployment benefits each month.

“Covers my rent, lights and half of my water bill,” Kimberly said.

Since moving to Iowa City four years ago from Texas, Kimberly said she has aggressively looked to find a job.

“I go out at least two to three times a week, put in two to three applications in, [during] a week,” Kimberly said.

So far, Kimberly has not had any luck and wants to know why it is taking her so long to find a job.

Koonce said that the Midwest is generally slower to succomb to an economic recession but this region also takes longer to recover from one.

Kimberly said while the unemployment benefits do not even cover the cost of food or clothing for her children and one grandchild, losing this financial assistance would be devastating.

“We'd be out the doors on the street,” she said.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley responded to the President's attack today, issuing a statement.

“Republican senators want the extension paid for, but the Democratic leadership wants to add the $34 billion cost to the deficit,” Senator Grassley said.  “Senate Republicans have asked four times – June 14, 17, 24 and 30 - to bring up a bill that pays for and extends benefits, but each time the Democratic leadership of the Senate has objected.”

The senior-ranking Senator said he believes there is a way to extend unemployment benefits without increasing the deficit.

Congress is expected to debate the bill sometime Tuesday.