Extending unemployment benefits has no effect on when or whether people get back to work. But it sure helps them avoid living in the street unless/until they get work again.

What does help get people work is government spending directed in ways that create a lot of jobs — not spending on banks or weapons. For instance, unemployment benefits feed money into the economy, and the recipients are sure to spend it right away on job-creating activities.

Almost 40% of potentially employed people in the US are not working, because there aren't jobs for them. Most of them are in some degree of hardship. Automation is likely to make this a lot worse.

The solution is a basic income for everyone.