The new extension of benefits, signed into law by President Bush on April 16, extends benefits for workers unemployed due to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks or the war in Iraq beyond an extension approved by Congress last year.

The new extension is targeted at a narrower sector, and provides more money only to those who have exhausted both regular and extended unemployment benefits. The state is mailing notices to potential recipients beginning this week.

"Not everyone who receives a notice will meet its eligibility requirements," the Employment Security Department said.

The extension applies to workers laid off from airlines, businesses that provide products or services directly to an air carrier, such as Boeing, and employees of companies providing airport-support services such as car rentals, aircraft maintenance or travel agents.

A person who does qualify for all state and federal extensions now in effect could receive a maximum of 91 weeks of benefits, compared to 65 weeks for those who do not qualify for the latest extension, Employment Security said.