Louisiana House Bill HB833

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/20
• Refer: 5/4/20

Caption

Provides with respect to unemployment insurance benefits

Impact

The bill notably modifies the existing structure around unemployment insurance by stipulating that benefits paid to employees during specified proclamations will not affect their employer's experience rating record. This change is intended to offer additional support to businesses during financially stressful periods without penalizing them through increased unemployment contribution rates. By allowing benefits to be paid without impacting employers financially, the bill seeks to promote job retention and support the workforce during transitional economic phases.

Summary

House Bill 833 aims to amend and reenact specific provisions related to unemployment insurance benefits in Louisiana. It emphasizes the deferral of employer contributions and tax reports for the first three quarters of the 2020 calendar year. This amendment is designed to provide temporary relief to employers affected by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, alleviating immediate financial burdens while maintaining the need for accountability through proper record-keeping and reporting. The bill retains existing laws while introducing adjustments to further benefit employers during challenging times.

Sentiment

Sentiment towards HB 833 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among business owners and employer organizations who see this legislation as a critical measure to protect against the financial fallout from the pandemic. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the long-term implications of such changes on unemployment insurance funding. Critics argue that while immediate relief is necessary, the sustainability of the unemployment compensation trust fund could be at risk if numerous benefits are granted without maintaining employer contributions and revenues to the fund.

Contention

Key points of contention have arisen regarding the bill's provisions related to the experience rating records and recoupment policies for unemployment benefits. Some stakeholders believe that the noncharging of benefits to employers could lead to potential abuses or might set a precedent that jeopardizes the integrity of the unemployment insurance program. Disagreements also center around the necessity of such measures and whether alternative forms of economic assistance might be better suited to support businesses while ensuring the long-term viability of the unemployment trust fund.