With the economy in recession, President Bush is asking (has asked) Congress to reconsider the stimulus package tabled when members adjourned for the Christmas holidays. Senator Daschle has countered with a retooled democratic stimulus plan. Both contain proposals to strengthen the unemployment insurance (UI) system. As the debate intensifies it will be critical to understand the key issues - how the system works now, where it needs fixing, which workers are most affected, and how the system contributes to stimulating the economy. Below are answers to some of the questions at the heart of understanding the program and the potential impact of reforms under consideration.