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IPFS News Link • Economy - Economics USA

Ariz. Gov. calls session on jobless benefits

• www.businessweek.com

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer is calling the Legislature into special session in an attempt to get lawmakers to change a formula in state law so jobless residents could continue to get 20 weeks of extended unemployment benefits.

Brewer announced late Wednesday that the special session would begin Friday morning.

"Extending benefits for the unemployed is the right thing to do both for our local economy and for Arizona families," Brewer said in a statement.

A recent dip in the unemployment rate sets the stage for the federally funded extended benefits to end this week unless lawmakers act.

Brewer spokesman Matt Benson said the goal is to have the session done in one day, and he said Brewer's office believes there are enough votes to pass the proposal.

However, what will happen during the special session is unclear because some legislators don't support Brewer's proposal and because some legislators may not be available to participate.

 

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