Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today said he is pleased the Senate has voted to move forward with legislation to extend unemployment benefits to thousands of New Mexicans who have been unable to find a job in this difficult economic climate.

The bill would extend unemployment insurance by up to 14 additional weeks for jobless workers in all states and up to 20 weeks in hard-hit states with unemployment levels at or above 8.5 percent.  New Mexico's unemployment rate as of September was 7.7 percent, up from 4.3 percent a year ago.

"This legislation will help many New Mexican families who are struggling because of the economic downturn.  I am pleased the Senate is making this issue a priority," Bingaman said.

The Senate is expected to vote on final passage later this week.