Benefits for Long-Term Unemployed May Be Extended

House Republicans have reportedly reversed their stance on extending a payroll tax cut and benefits for the long-term unemployed this afternoon.  The Associated Press and Reuters report the House will vote on the measure.

This means about 12,000 Idahoans who’ve been out of work for more than six months will continue to receive extended federal benefits for at least the next two months, if the measure passes.  The Idaho Department of Labor Director Roger Madsen has said he doesn’t support an extension of benefits.  Madsen has suggested Idaho legislators and the governor will reject any further benefit extensions.

Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter told StateImpact Idaho the state doesn’t have authority to reject federal benefits.