N.J. panels back extension of unemployment benefit

Committees in both houses of the New Jersey Legislature have advanced a measure that will provide some extra assistance for the unemployed.

The bill makes adjustments to New Jersey law so out-of-work residents can take advantage of the eight-week extension of federal unemployment benefits.

“Anytime where you’ve been out of work for so long and you recognize you’re going to be able to get eight more weeks of unemployment benefits to help pay your bills, it goes a long way,” said Sen. Paul Sarlo, one of the main sponsors of the bill. “It gives you eight more weeks of hope that you will land a job.”

While the national economy is starting to improve, Sarlo said New Jersey is lagging. He says Democrats in the legislature will continue to push for a series of job stimulus bills even though Gov. Chris Christie has vetoed most of their previous efforts.

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