The State Finance Council in Kansas has rejected an additional $100 in unemployment benefits for people who have lost jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Governor Kelly was wanting to have the state add $100 to the $300 weekly benefit provided in an executive order issued by President Trump.    She issued a statement after the council vote:

“While we are still hoping the federal government takes action and extends the FPUC program, my administration is committed to using whatever tools are available to help Kansans. I’m disappointed that Republican leaders on the State Finance Council continue to play politics during a public health crisis, instead of supporting the plan that was introduced by President Trump. 

“Republican leaders in the Legislature have said they want to help Kansans who are struggling with the impacts of COVID-19, but the first chance they had to do something about it, they voted to make a political point instead of supporting the people of this state who need help.” 

Republican leaders on the State Finance Council issued their own statement:

“Republicans today supported a $300 increase to unemployment benefits for Kansans who are suffering from the economic damage of the COVID-19 response. House Republicans are also focused on ensuring our unemployment system is solvent for the duration of this crisis. Kansans who have lost a job deserve stability and security right now. They need to know the unemployment safety net isn’t just there for them today but will be there for them in days to come. We must take care of the basics first and give Kansans confidence in our system. While Governor Kelly seems focused on short term bandaids our focus is on a long-term plan to keep our system solvent and help Kansans get back to work.”