Washington, DC—Today Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement on the extension for the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits, which passed the House today by a vote of 293-132:

“Today, I voted to extend the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits.  While this is not a perfect bill, the extension of these benefits will provide a lifeline for millions of Americans and further promote our nation’s economic recovery.

 It is unfortunate that the bill singles out federal employees that play an integral role in our day-to-day lives.  However, my colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together to extend unemployment insurance benefits and the payroll tax cut, which helps our nation’s families by reducing poverty, infusing money into the economy, and creating much needed jobs.

We all understand that extending unemployment insurance benefits and the payroll tax holiday is a temporary fix to a long term problem. We must move quickly to adopt a comprehensive jobs plan that encourages businesses to create jobs for all Americans and ensures that our communities continue to grow and thrive.

I look forward to working with the administration and my colleagues in Congress on long-term measures that strengthen the middle class, sustain health care coverage and access for our seniors and promote economic growth and job creation.”

###

Contact:     Allison Abney;  (202) 225-2665;  Allison.abney@mail.house.gov