Wyden Statement on CBO Analysis of People Receiving Unemployment Benefits

Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement on the Congressional Budget Office analysis of characteristics of people receiving unemployment benefits:  

“CBO’s report concludes that Black and Hispanic Americans are more likely to be receiving unemployment benefits, reflecting the disproportionate effects of this economic crisis on communities of color. 

“Economic pain has overwhelmingly been concentrated at the lower end of the economic ladder, those making below average wages who worked in the retail, service and tourism industries. These are also the folks who had the least cushion to withstand an economic crisis.  

“Extending supercharged unemployment benefits is not just an economic issue, it’s a racial justice issue. These benefits must continue and be tied to economic conditions on the ground to ensure families can pay the rent and buy groceries months down the road.” 

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