Austin Scott: “there is nothing more critical right now than responding to the very critical needs of our unemployed. We have almost a…”

“there is nothing more critical right now than responding to the very critical needs of our unemployed. We have almost a million people in this country who are unemployed, and for us to sit here and dally and not move forthright and push for the strongest measure we can, the people of this country are crying out for help. There are families to feed, there are bills to be paid, and we know we were derelict in our responsibilities not to do this last year, and it will be a shame if we do not move forcefully. Not just 13 weeks, we need 26 weeks of help at least, mainly because every economic adviser, every economic indicator, points out clearly that this economic downturn is going to last well into the next year. Thirteen weeks is not enough. Furthermore, if we do it for 26 weeks, it will pump an immediate $18 billion into the economy where people would be able to spend it, where the need is greatest, and not only will it do the good of helping those with their unemployment benefits, but by doing this, pumping the $18 billion in, it will create badly needed jobs. The greatest need right now is not to dally, and with all due respect to the present administration, I say 13 weeks is not enough. We need 26 weeks. The people of this country are crying out for help, and they are looking to us in the Congress to speak with a loud voice for them. I urge this House to move forthrightly, do the right thing.”