(Washington, DC) -- A bill providing another extension of unemployment insurance has cleared a key hurdle in the Senate.
With that procedural vote, the Senate agreed to move the legislation closer to a final vote. The measure includes an extension of COBRA health insurance subsidies for those without jobs and aims to fix a long-running problem involving Medicare reimbursements to doctors. COBRA and unemployment insurance would be extended through the end of this year. The measure also closes some tax loopholes and extends dozens of tax breaks that have expired. Supporters argue the bill will continue to provide urgently-needed help to struggling Americans. Republican critics say the nearly 150-billion dollar measure will add to the soaring federal deficit. The test vote was necessary as 60 votes are required in the 100-member Senate to push important legislation forward.
