1.2 million unemployed may lose federal benefits

By Ruth Mantell WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- About 1.2 million jobless workers could be "cut off" from federal unemployment benefits next month if Congress does not pass an extension soon, according to a statement released Monday by the National Employment Law Project. The House could vote as early as Tuesday on extending the benefits, and the Senate could consider the bill later this week, congressional aides said. "Unemployed Americans are pulling their hair out -- and they are looking to Congress for help," said Christine Owens, NELP's executive director. "Even if it means staying in Washington as the congressional recess approaches, the unemployment bill must move forward." Extending the benefits is part of a larger jobs and tax bill pending in Congress.

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