During difficult economic times, many individuals have been forced out of their jobs. The same people have dutifully planned for retirement as the government and banking have encouraged. The government could help many of these individuals out by allowing early withdrawals from the retirement accounts without paying the additional tax penalty for using funds prior to retirement age. These funds are often needed to start a new business or just cover everyday expenses.
This is one small thing the administration could do to help the middle class through the recovery.