Washington, D.C. (September, 26 2003) —National Urban League president and CEO, Marc H. Morial expressed concern that over 1.6 million more American people have fallen below the poverty line from 2001 to 2002 according to the latest report by the U.S Census Bureau released today. In response to the increase in the poverty rate, the National Urban League has urged for an extension of unemployment benefits and Congressional review of the five-year lifetime ban on welfare benefits to low-income mothers and their children.

"The increase in the poverty rate that represents more than one million people reflects a continual trend in loss of income and joblessness that may soon impact homelessness as well," said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League. "We urge that Congress work to extend unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks. This will help to stem the tide for workers who have lost their jobs in these tough economic times."

According to today's report, from 2001 to 2002 the poverty rate for African Americans increased by 1.2 percent or 750,000 people. Hispanic poverty rates also increased by 0.4 percent or 558,000 people. The new statistics are more alarming especially given that poverty for African Americans and Hispanics was on the decline from1993 to 2000. The National Urban League also proposes that Congress review the effect of the five-year lifetime ban on welfare benefits to all families.

Urban League economist and Executive Director of the National Urban League Institute for Equality and Opportunity Dr. William Spriggs said, "Congress should also review the possible negative effect of the five-year ban on welfare benefits. The ban may create a severe hardship on mothers who are looking for work, but cannot find it due to the soft economy."

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