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Whitmer Vetoes Bill That Would Have Cut Off Extra Unemployment Benefit

Governor Gretchen Whitmer sitting at a desk
Courtesy Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Whitmer noted the legislation also would not have taken effect until 2022, by which time it would have been moot.

Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has vetoed a Republican-sponsored bill that would have stopped a $300 weekly federal unemployment supplement.

The money is being added to unemployed workers’ benefits during the coronavirus pandemic.

The extra payment is due to end Sept. 4 under federal law.

The GOP-controlled Legislature wanted to terminate it July 31, saying the money discourages people from rejoining the workforce.

Whitmer said the bill would have violated federal law by ending the payment without 30 days’ notice.

She also noted the legislation also would not have taken effect until 2022, by which time it would have been moot.

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