SCS/HCS/HB 202 - This act modifies provisions relating to employment security.The act provides that a claimant is disqualified for unemployment compensation if the designated representative of the Division of Employment Security (DES) finds that the claimant failed to appear for a scheduled job interview or skills test for suitable work a combination of three times in a benefit year. The act also repeals the current requirement of notifying a claimant of suitable work, suitable job interview, or skills test by certified mail and instead requires such notification to be made by a method and manner determined by DES. Furthermore, DES shall establish a method allowing employers to report individuals who do not accept or respond to offers or do not appear for scheduled interviews or tests.
The act additionally establishes the "Employment Security Program Integrity Act of 2025." This act requires DES to take certain steps to ensure the accuracy of employment security rolls and verify the identity of benefits claimants. Specifically, DES must utilize a national data check system, make weekly checks against a list of incarcerated individuals, state death records, and new-hire records, and take steps to verify the identity of claimants, as outlined in the act.
Any welfare agency, as that term is defined in the act, is required to notify DES when an enrolled individual becomes employed. DES is permitted to pursue the recovery of fraudulent or otherwise benefits overpayment. DES is required to provide an annual report to the General Assembly by December 31st of each year describing improper unemployment compensation benefit payments and their recovery efforts. The Division is authorized to enter into a memorandum of understanding with other state entities to share and receive the necessary information.
This act is substantially similar to HB 1281 (2025).
SCOTT SVAGERA