On Tuesday, June 9, the Senate will begin discussions on whether to extend the enhanced unemployment benefits past July 31, when they are currently set to expire. This includes whether or not the extra $600 per week in UI keeps going after July.

In May, House Democrats introduced the Heroes Act, a $3 trillion relief package which included an extension of the benefits through January 2021. The main difference between Heroes Act and CARES Act is that the Heroes Act is designed to be more comprehensive and addresses many of the shortfalls that were in the first relief package.

Division E of the Heroes Act includes provisions to renew the enhanced unemployment benefit for everyone, including those of us who work in the Performing Arts industry.

While PUA (which covers those not normally eligible for unemployment) is slated to run through December 31, the passing of the Heroes Act and extending the weekly $600 past July is critical to keeping workers and families stable through the pandemic. This legislation would make a real, tangible difference in the lives of thousands of AGMA members.

We encourage you to write to your Senator TODAY. Encourage them to demand the renewal of the enhanced unemployment benefits for all workers, including those of us in the Performing Arts industry, in any future relief legislation. All you have to do is enter your address to access the pre-drafted letter which you can send as is or personalize any way you like. You do not need to hunt down the names and addresses of your elected officials, they will automatically populate based on your address.