Unemployment Extension Update: Senate Democrats Sidestep Stimulus Trap 03/05/21 AT 3:01 PM Congressional Democrats have changed the stimulus bill to extend unemployment benefits through September, ensuring the benefits won’t run out while Congress is in recess. Unemployment benefits are gaining importance as long-term unemployment approaches record levels, CNBC reports. The move was led by Sen. Ron Wyden, (D-Ore.) Chair of the Senate Finance Committee. Wyden sounded the alarm on Wednesday. “I’m going to fight like hell to get this extended to September,” he said. “It defies common sense for Congress to set up another cliff, and it’s in the middle of August.”