Lawmakers extend unemployment benefits to get stimulus cash

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An estimated 3,000 Wisconsinites a year will become eligible for unemployment benefits under changes approved by the Legislature Wednesday.

The Senate voted 25-8, and the Assembly voted 87-11, to expand the eligibility for benefits so the state can receive $89 million in federal stimulus funds.

Those who quit their jobs to relocate with a spouse would become eligible for unemployment pay along with those caring for sick relatives and those who fear domestic abuse.

Also, workers in certain training programs could get an extra seven weeks of jobless pay, for a total of 79.

Some Republicans said the measure would force businesses to pay higher unemployment taxes once the stimulus money goes away.

But Democratic finance chairman Mark Pocan says it’s more important to get the aid to those who need it and lawmakers can deal with any long-term impact later.

Gov. Jim Doyle promises to sign the measure. He says it will “provide a little extra help for the unemployed in these tough times.”

Tags: unemployment benefits, news, wisconsin