Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) today applauded passage of the extension of the payroll tax cut for 160 million Americans through the end of 2012. The legislation, which passed both the House of Representatives (on a vote of 293-132) and the Senate (on a vote of 60-36), also extends unemployment insurance coverage and ensures that tens of millions of seniors can continue to see the doctor of their choice under Medicare. The bill now heads to President Obama for his signature.

“This bipartisan legislation is vital to keep our economy moving forward,” Baldwin said. “In Wisconsin alone, 3.2 million people will continue to receive a payroll tax cut of 2 percent, rather than a tax increase averaging about $1000 for a typical working family. Passage of this legislation demonstrates that when Congress focuses on what is best for American families, and not political gamesmanship, important and constructive action can result. We have more work to do to rebuild and strengthen our middle class. Today’s vote is an important step in that direction.”