“They have not put forward anything with regard to how we would create more jobs,” Boehner said. “And so the ball’s still in their court.” Asked what package might persuade him to bring an extension to the floor for a vote, Boehner said, “You’ll have to ask the administration,” again blaming the White House for not coming forward with a jobs proposal.  

A senior administration official said earlier this week that the administration would be willing to engage in constructive talks with Republicans on the issue but would not be subject to a hostage negotiation.  

The Senate this week approved a bipartisan extension, with six Republicans joining all Democrats present to clear the measure, but House Republicans ignored the bill and left town.  

Some senior Republicans have suggested adding a compromise on job training programs  or business tax cuts to the extension after the spring break.  

Ways and Means Republicans this week contended in a blog post that an unemployment extension won’t create jobs.
Steven T. Dennis contributed to this report. Follow our coverage of the unemployment insurance extension proposals:  

Senate Passes Unemployment Extension


Unemployment Extension Vote Not Worrying House Republicans


Boehner Still Cool to Senate Unemployment Extension Bill


Unemployment Extension Fight Pits Portman Against Boehner


Doctors Win, Jobless Lose: The GOP Confronts New Perception Problem


Unemployment Benefits Could Be Delayed Months, Even if Congress Acts Now
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