Edwards reintroduces bill to reform unemployment benefits, promote work
U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today re-introduced the Unemployment Integrity (UI) Act to reform unemployment benefits and promote Americans getting back to work.
The UI Act requires states to establish the following minimum interview requirements for those seeking unemployment insurance benefits:
- Claimants must respond to, schedule, and attend an offered interview.
- Claimants must complete any other reasonable request as part of the hiring process (e.g., drug testing, skills assessments).
Edwards said, “Throughout Western North Carolina, I’ve heard from multiple business owners about the challenges of hiring new staff. Employers offer competitive wages and benefits, receive plenty of applications and schedule interviews, but many applicants never show up to interview for the job. These no-show interviews are draining small businesses of valuable resources when they’re already stretched thin, while unemployment claimants continue to receive and benefit from hard-working citizen’s taxpayer dollars.”
“The NC Chamber supports this policy to protect the integrity and solvency of our unemployment insurance (UI) system,”said Jake Cashion, vice president of government affairs, NC Chamber. "This bill would improve connections between unemployed workers and employers with job openings by assuring that unemployed workers are available for work and respond to job openings and interview opportunities. Congressman Edwards was one of the business leaders who helped us champion reforms in North Carolina a decade ago, and we appreciate his continued leadership on the issue.”
“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the reintroduction of the Unemployment Integrity Act, recognizing its role in enhancing accountability throughout the unemployment insurance program. We commend Congressman Edwards for his dedication to strengthening the integrity of this crucial program,” said Rodney Davis, head of government affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs and workforce, Associated General Contractors of America said, "The Associated General Contractors of America supports Congressman Edwards’ Unemployment Integrity Act. Despite robust recruitment efforts and high paying jobs, the construction industry still faces a workforce shortage. The bill would provide more incentives for unemployed workers to actively seek out employment and encourage more use of existing reemployment services."
Background
- The Department of Labor estimates at least $163 billion in unemployment fraud since 2020.
- Fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic showed a loophole in the unemployment benefits system, where claimants are required to search for and accept work, but have no obligation to attend an interview when offered – the single most important part of a job search.
Endorsements
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- N.C. Chamber of Commerce
- Council of Independent Business Owners
- Associated General Contractors of America