2010 Unemployment Extension and Emergency Unemployment Benefits Bill

The 2010 unemployment extension hasn't been passed.  The unemployment extension 2010 and emergency unemployment benefits is at the heart of the American people. There are many Senators on both sides of the fence that want legislation passed, but it is hard to come to a compromise that makes both sides of the partisan lines happy.

Both Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat and Olympia Snowe, a Republican, want a standalone bill.  Snowe will likely back a standalone bill even if it does add to deficit spending.  She previously failed to back the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010 because it contained provisions she feels would be detrimental to small businesses.

Whether or not the unemployment issue will hit the Senate Floor this week before they adjourn for the Fourth of July holiday hasn't been widely made known.  Not only are there the confirmation hearings for Obama's Supreme Court nominee, there is also a push to pass financial reform legislation before the break.

In addition, the death of Senator Robert Byrd has also shaken the Senate and has taken one democrat away from the majority.  His vote would have been crucial to legislation if such legislation was opposed by Republicans.  This will change the landscape of the Senate even if only temporarily.

Hopefully the Emergency Unemployment Benefits bill will pass - either in its current form or as a standalone measure. There's likely few Americans who aren't willing or supportive of helping their fellow Americans out during a time of need.