Bill to extend jobless benefits sent to Gov. Rendell

HARRISBURG (AP) — Tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians who’ve lost their jobs are soon going to be eligible for another seven weeks of unemployment benefits.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted unanimously today to approve the bill, which the sponsor says will provide benefits for about 57,000 people.

It’s retroactive to cover those who have exhausted their 72 weeks of unemployment benefits since the start of July.

It extends relief to people through by the end of the year.

Pennsylvania’s maximum weekly unemployment compensation check is $583.