Hagan votes to extend key middle-class tax cut

U.S. Sen. Kay R. Hagan (D—N.C.) on Friday, Feb. 17, voted to extend the payroll tax cut through the end of the year for 4.7 million North Carolinians. The vote also extended enhanced unemployment benefits through the end of 2012. The measure passed the Senate 60 to 36 and will now go to the President’s desk for signature.
“Today I was proud to vote to extend the payroll tax cut for working, middle-class Americans that will benefit 4.7 million North Carolinians and ensure an extra $900 in the pockets of our hardworking families this year,” said Hagan. “With families still struggling to make ends meet, this extra money will go along way in helping to afford necessities such as groceries, gas and school supplies. While the entire final bill may not be perfect, I am pleased that Congress reached a bipartisan compromise that didn’t bring Congress again to the 11th hour, leaving middle-class families hanging in the balance.
“With North Carolina's unemployment rate at nearly 10 percent, the unemployment insurance represents a lifeline for many of our families who are trying to get back on their feet.”
To see an interactive map of how families in your county will save from this measure, click here.