As thousands of employees across Alabama are impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19), U.S. Senator Doug Jones and his House colleague, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell on Thursday urged Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and her administration to extend unemployment benefits for Alabamians impacted by the spread of the novel COVID-19.
As a result of the economic and public health crisis caused by the pandemic, workers across the Yellowhammer State have had their hours cut or lost their jobs completely as businesses struggle to meet payroll.
In a letter to Ivey, the lawmakers wrote: “We urge you to work with the State Legislature to make available twenty-six weeks of unemployment benefits for all eligible individuals for the duration of this public health and economic crisis. This action would be an impactful step to maintaining economic stability during this challenging time.”
“Alabama’s economy relies on workers across a variety of sectors and industries who will be impacted by the spread of COVID-19. We are facing unprecedented economic upheaval, and families will increasingly rely on these funds to afford basic necessities, including food, housing, and medication. One of our top priorities must be to support workers and families facing difficult financial circumstances due to the pandemic,” they continued.
Read the full letter here.