WHITE PLAINS – Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) Tuesday called for an immediate 13-week extension in federal unemployment insurance to help an estimated 3.8 million Americans and stimulate the national economy.

“At a time when our economy is shedding jobs, the unemployment rate is rising dangerously, and daily costs of living are skyrocketing, it is critical for American workers and families to have a safety net,” said Lowey. “A 13-week extension in federal unemployment insurance would help 3.8 million Americans and stimulate our stagnating economy. Congress has acted – President Bush must now join us to help those out of work and their families.”

Last week, the federal government reported that the national economy shed 49,000 jobs in May, bringing the total to nearly 325,000 since the beginning of the year. The unemployment rate rose from 5.0 percent to 5.5 percent, the biggest monthly increase since 1986. Nearly one in five unemployed American workers have been searching for employment for more than 26 weeks while the costs of daily life are rising and the American economy is at the brink of recession.

The House of Representatives passed the Emergency Extended Unemployment Compensation Act, which would immediately provide up to 13 weeks of extended unemployment benefits in every state to workers who have exhausted the 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits. President Bush has threatened to veto the bill.

In addition to helping families in need, an extension of unemployment assistance would boost the economy. The funds would be spent quickly, generating $1.64 in economic demand for every dollar provided in benefits.