House Speaker John Boehner is willing to listen to ideas for extending unemployment benefits. But he wants some ideas from the White House.
The Senate approved a retroactive five month extension Monday, but the House of Representatives has not acted. And since the House Thursday left for a recess that will last until April 28, it could be awhile before it considers the plan.
Boehner explained his view at a news conference Thursday:
“Listen,” he said, “I made clear to the president last December that, you know, if they wanted us to consider extension of emergency unemployment benefits, it would have to be paid for and it would have to include things that would help get our economy growing. They've not put forward anything with regard to how we would create more jobs. And so the ball's still in their court.”
He was asked what kind of job creation package would get the jobless benefit plan moving in the House.
“Well, you'll have to ask the administration. I made clear what it would take for me to consider it. They've not had any suggestions,” the Ohio Republican added.