As more states look to end federal enhanced unemployment, nearly 2 million people could lose at least some of their unemployment benefits

Nearly 2 million Americans could lose at least some — and in many cases all — of their federal unemployment benefits starting next month, as a growing number of Republican governors have announced they will end their states' participation in the federal programs as coronavirus pandemic restrictions ease. 

But some progressives are calling on the Biden administration to find ways to continue at least some of that aid, and the administration is examining the matter.  The end of federal enhanced unemployment benefits could affect more than 594,000 unemployed workers in Ohio, more than 268,000 in Georgia, more than 190,000 in Arizona and more than 147,000 in Missouri alone, according to the Century Foundation, a progressive think tank. While programs are administered through states, it is federal money, so those opting out are also leaving more than $10 billion in funds going directly to their states on the table.