Unemployment Benefits Modernization and Recession Readiness Act
This bill aims to significantly strengthen the unemployment support system by introducing new funding rules, extending benefit periods, and increasing payment amounts. It also facilitates access to benefits for individuals in difficult life situations, such as victims of violence or those caring for sick relatives, and introduces a new allowance for job seekers.
Key points
Increases federal funding for unemployment benefits to 100%, easing state budgets.
Extends unemployment benefit duration during high unemployment periods, up to 52 weeks in severe times.
Establishes a minimum unemployment benefit duration of 26 weeks across all states.
Raises minimum benefit amounts to at least 75% of highest quarterly earnings and maximum amounts to 2/3 of the state's average weekly wage.
Simplifies access to benefits for part-time workers, self-employed individuals, and student-workers.
Expands 'good cause' reasons for leaving employment without losing benefits, including caring for sick family, spouse relocation, lack of childcare, workplace health/safety risks, or employer legal violations.
Allows unemployment compensation for survivors and victims of harassment, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking who left their jobs.
Eliminates the waiting week for unemployment benefit payments, providing faster financial support.
Introduces a new 'Jobseeker Allowance' for individuals actively seeking work, regardless of prior employment, with potential increases during high unemployment periods.
Expired
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