Update on UI Extension 3/3/2010 at 10:00 am EST Last night, Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY), allowed the Senate to vote on a short term -- 30 day extension -- of unemployment benefits. The Senate passed the measure by a vote of 78-19. Because the Senate voted on a House-passed bill, the legislation went directly to the White House and President Obama signed it into law late last night. The Senate now turns its attention back to a larger jobs package today that would extend unemployment insurance benefits until December 31, 2010. Many thanks to all those who contacted their lawmakers and explained the problems associated with a lapse in the program. It is greatly appreciated and helped to break the impasse and move the issue forward.