Unemployment Benefits Extended

Just days after the federal government passed a law extending unemployment benefits (Title IV of PL 110-252, Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008), "Governor Deval Patrick on Tuesday authorized Massachusetts to accept federal funds to extend unemployment benefits for up to a total of 39 weeks under a new “Extended Benefits” program," according to a press release from the Governor's Office. The extension becomes effective next week. "The Division of Unemployment Assistance will be notifying potentially eligible claimants by mail after the program begins on Monday July 7. At that time, more information and future updates about the extended benefit program will be posted on the DUA website."