At a time when our enemies want to impose all the insecurity possible on America, it makes special sense for Congress to help workers who are losing their jobs as a result of terrorism.

House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt has proposed a package of assistance for workers who are laid off as a secondary effect of Sept. 11’s acts of war. Gephardt’s proposal, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Rick Larsen and Rep. Jay Inslee, would provide much-needed help for workers and their families.

There is at least one other major proposal in draft form, and others may emerge in coming weeks. But the key elements of the Gephardt plan ought to receive serious consideration in whatever action Congress may decide to take.

Under Gephardt’s plan, workers would receive upgraded training and extended unemployment benefits — up to 78 weeks instead of the normal 26. In addition, they would receive federal subsidy for the continuation of health insurance.

The plan would cover employees of airlines, commercial airline manufacturers, suppliers to airlines and employees of airports. The secretary of labor would decide whether particular layoffs are direct results of the Sept. 11 attacks.

It was entirely appropriate — and impressive — that Congress and President Bush united quickly to help airlines with $15 billion in aid. But support for corporations hardly ends the need for the federal government — for we, the people — to help those devastated by an act of war against our country. Inslee calls the idea of helping corporations but not people "unconscionable."

It would also be incredibly stupid. At a time when Americans need extra security, Congress should rush to help. Odds are, the bills for the small measure of security won’t be near as big as we might imagine. American ingenuity and drive could well prevent some of the expected layoffs and could shorten the time many people are out of work. If the benefits are all needed, well, we ought to pull together to help anyway.

Americans understand that, as they are demonstrating with their generous contributions to the victims of the attacks. Congress should show its awareness of the devastating side-effects by helping the workers whose jobs are already gone or are at risk.