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Iowa Democrats Push for Expanded Military Benefits

By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Jan 21, 2010 at 3:27 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jan 21, 2010 at 3:27 PM CDT

DES MOINES (AP) - Two Democratic lawmakers want to expand benefits for families of military members who face deployment.

The measure was announced Thursday by Rep. Ray Zirkelbach, of Monticello, and Sen. Steve Warnstadt, of Sioux City. Both have extensive military backgrounds.

The plan deals with spouses, or those who can no longer keep their job or care for children after their husband or wife is deployed, and often depend on family for help.

Under the proposal, those spouses would be eligible for unemployment benefits if they are forced to leave their jobs. If they are forced to drop out of school, they would be protected from financial penalties.

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