Thousands of Connecticut residents could see their unemployment checks drop dramatically with the $600 a week bonus payment ending.

Elizabeth Conti, of Norwalk, is still unemployed and says she is worried what she will do without the extra money from the federal government.

"I'm going to have to replace my income, and it's very tough out there," says Conti.

So far, Congress is far apart on a deal to extend the payments. Republicans want the benefit to continue, but have it cut down to $200.

"Here's the difference we have with unemployment insurance," says Sen. Mitch McConnell. "We think it ought to be crafted in a way that does not pay people more to stay at home than go back to work."

Democrats, however, want to keep the checks at $600 and tie the money to the $3 trillion in help for states and cities.

Rep. Jim Himes says Connecticut desperately needs the money.

"You're already seeing in the city of Stamford teachers being laid off, recycling programs being reduced because people outside of the schools are being laid off," says Rep. Jim Hines.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal says there should be a graduated reduction in the $600 payment as the unemployment rate comes down.

"What I have to say to them is get to the drawing board," says Conti. There's probably a lot more that you agree on than disagree on. And if you keep anything in mind keep people in mind."

The U.S. Senate adjourned until Monday with no vote on whether to extend the $600 a week unemployment benefit.