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NM Adds 13 Weeks of Unemployment Benefits

By KRWG News

New Mexico – Gov. Bill Richardson says New Mexico will provide 13 additional weeks of unemployment benefits to people who have lost their jobs.

Richardson says the state's unemployment rate qualifies it to extend the the payments under the federal Extended Unemployment Compensation and Extended Benefits programs.

The Department of Workforce Solutions reports New Mexico's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 7 percent in July.

Richardson says the additional extension will offer unemployed New Mexicans relief as they search for work.

New Mexico qualified for the additional benefits Sept. 5, but the Department of Workforce Solutions anticipates that people will not be eligible until after Oct. 5.

Workforce Solutions will send letters to people who are eligible for more benefits.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.