Legislature Passes Legislation to Extend Unemployment Benefits

Representative David Linsky (D-Natick) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to pass An Act relative to additional unemployment benefits for the neediest recipients currently excluded from the Lost Wages Assistance program, on Monday, October 26, which would enhance unemployment benefits for 17,000 people in Massachusetts by as much as $1,800 each.

“As we continue to face the challenges of this pandemic it is vital that we protect those who are most vulnerable to ensure that as a Commonwealth can bounce back from this crisis together,” said Representative Linsky. “I am proud to stand in support with my colleagues in the House and Senate who are committed to continuing to support working families.”

“The Senate is laser focused on assisting those most in need, especially as we continue to tackle the dueling challenges posed by the global pandemic and economic crisis, “stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This legislation speaks to that commitment and will help assist residents in obtaining lost wages as a result of the ongoing public health emergency. I would like to thank Senators Pat Jehlen, Eric Lesser and Michael Rodrigues, as well as Speaker Robert DeLeo and his colleagues for working to quickly usher this bill to the governor's desk.”

“The House has an ongoing and long-standing commitment to supporting workers, and these benefits will ease the economic burden of the pandemic on individuals and families across the Commonwealth,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “I thank Chairs Michlewitz and Hay and House Members for their diligence in this important issue, and appreciate the leadership of Senate President Spilka with the support from our colleagues in the Senate.

The Governor signed the legislation into law on Monday.

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