Arizona Lawmakers Tell God to Deal With Unemployment

According to state senator Sylvia Allen, the unemployed of Arizona can no longer count on the government to pay out the unemployment insurance money normally given to the unemployed. Instead, Allen suggests that “god” (whoever that is) will help Arizonans find employment and/or make it through these tough times. So, starting this weekend, Arizona's unemployed should feel free to show up at their local church or synagogue and ask the local pastor for their $240 a week. After all, local churches are the closest representatives of “god”, so it makes sense that this is where folks could turn to in order to collect the money formerly provided by the government, doesn't it? Does that sound like a good plan, Senator Allen? Local churches might also be accepting job applications and resumes, in particular for H.R. personnel, as “god” may be very busy trying to find work for the 10% of Arizonans who are without work. There has been no indication as to whether or not “god” will offer classes on resume writing or interviewing tips. For her part, Republican Governor Jan Brewer has been trying for weeks to get the insane wing of the Republican Party to extend unemployment benefits to cover those whose benefits will run out this weekend. The minimal support provided by benefits is not enough to cover rent, utilities and food for most folks, although that isn't enough to stop Republicans from making outlandish claims about welfare queens sitting at home enjoying their high-life living on $240 a week. As Republicans argue that the benefits cannot be extended because they cost too much, they at the same time argue that taxes for businesses should be cut BEFORE considering feeding, clothing, and caring for the long-term unemployed. The party of Scrooge has become the joke that writes itself.