Washington, D.C. - Idaho Congressman Walt Minnick today applauded the passage of a bill to extend federal jobless benefits for as many as 20 more weeks.  The House voted 403-12 to pass the bill after the Senate unanimously approved the measure Wednesday night.  The bill is expected to land on the president's desk Friday, when he is expected to sign it into law.

"Today's vote provides important reassurance to Idahoans looking for work and looking to restart their lives," Minnick said. "Idaho Department of Labor Director Roger Madsen and his team are doing great work under difficult circumstances.  I hope this funding helps them continue that work."

The legislation also continues a home-buyers' tax credit and a measure allowing businesses to write off some of the losses they incurred over the past two years.