May 18, 2013
President Bush and the new Republican-run Congress have acted quickly to extend jobless benefits.
The measure offers some 2.5 million unemployed Americans another 13 weeks of federal benefits. That's in addition to state benefits they may qualify for.
Bush hailed the bill's bipartisan passage, and said he hopes for more to come from this Congress. That sentiment was echoed by Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist.
But many Democrats voted aye with some reluctance -- wishing for a 26-week extension instead.
During House debate, Georgia Congressman David Scott said the benefits extension should be longer.
