PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Members of Rhode Island's congressional delegation say they're optimistic a deal can be struck to avoid the so-called fiscal cliff, which will increase taxes and cut spending automatically at the end of the year.
The four members of the state's delegation, all Democrats, on Monday said there are encouraging signs of progress in Washington after President Barack Obama met with Republican House Speaker John Boehner over the weekend.
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and Rep. Jim Langevin say there may not be a deal before the first of the year, but if a deal is struck in January or February, it could be made retroactive, a sentiment echoed by Rep. David Cicilline.
Sen. Jack Reed says his most immediate concern is for people collecting unemployment who could lose that benefit.