Take a lay-off? Or keep going?

Hi guys:

In a huge dilemma ATM and would really appreciate your guys advice.

I've been a General Accountant (tasks about the same as a corporate Junior Accountant) at a small business for about a year. It's a great place to work and the boss treats me well. Unfortunately, I see cutbacks coming and the business is in danger of not even surviving. Really sucks considering I was unemployed for a bit after getting screwed over at old job. Anyway, I have been getting a few ins with government and through govt programs. It seems like I may be able to transition to temp govt jobs (3-6 months) until I find something f/t within government IF I get laid off. Ideally I'd like to stay private for the time being, but the increased, salary, pension, etc. is definitely tempting. I have been applying for jobs like mad since September, have had interviews but no luck. I am shooting for CMA and will be done Accelerated Program in March,

That being said, should I ask for a lay-off, or keep going in trying to find something private sector? Thanks.