House Passes Another Temporary COBRA, UI Extension Bill

On March 17, the House of Representatives passed by voice vote the Continuing Extension Act of 2010 (H.R. 4851), legislation that would extend the 65 percent premium COBRA subsidy another month until April 30, 2010, and the emergency unemployment insurance benefits until May 5, 2010. On March 2, President Obama signed into law the Temporary Extension Act of 2010 (H.R. 4691), a bill that extended the COBRA subsidy until March 31, 2010, and emergency unemployment insurance benefits until April 5, 2010. The Senate has already passed the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010 (H.R. 4213), a more comprehensive bill that includes provisions continuing both benefits programs through the end of this year. Although it is expected the House will ultimately pass this measure, a vote may not come until after these programs have expired, thus creating the need for another extender bill.

The Senate is expected to take up this measure shortly.

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