Memorializes congress to discontinue federal unemployment compensation benefits
Impact
If the resolution is enacted, it signals a major shift in the approach toward unemployment benefits during the ongoing economic recovery from the pandemic. The original encompassment of federal unemployment benefits under the CARES Act and American Rescue Plan Act aimed to provide necessary support to unemployed workers during a crisis. However, this measure would override any extended benefits, potentially affecting individuals relying on these federal supports while they seek employment.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 109 memorializes the United States Congress to discontinue federal unemployment compensation benefits. The resolution argues that continuing these benefits may discourage United States workers from returning to work, which is deemed necessary to rejuvenate the workforce still affected by the collateral implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the need for businesses to recover by having access to a returning workforce, especially as the country gradually returns to normal operations with vaccinations available and businesses reopening fully.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR 109 appears to be supportive among certain legislators who argue for economic recovery and workforce revitalization. Proponents believe that reducing unemployment benefits would encourage more individuals to enter the labor market, thus addressing labor shortages faced by businesses. Conversely, there are concerns from opponents who worry that the resolution may overlook the needs of individuals who still face barriers to reemployment in a recovering economy.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between providing safety nets for unemployed individuals and ensuring that businesses can recover effectively from the pandemic. Supporters of the resolution may view it as a necessary measure to incentivize returning to work, while opponents could argue that the resolution does not consider the socio-economic challenges still faced by many workers. Furthermore, critics suggest that hastily discontinuing unemployment benefits might undermine recovery efforts by leaving vulnerable populations without adequate support during a crucial transition period.
Requests Louisiana congressional delegation to take steps to modify the federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation supplement in a way that will promote individual claiming benefits to return to work.
Memorializes the United States Congress to extend the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program to help the state of Louisiana continue its economic recovery and to provide support to the administration of the Louisiana Workforce Commission
Memorializes congress to take such actions as are necessary to pass a stimulus plan that includes funds for unemployment, housing, local government, struggling businesses, education, and health care
Memorializes Congress to grant states optional flexibility through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to integrate and improve service delivery of federally funded assistance programs
Memorializes Congress and the Louisiana congressional delegation to clarify the eligibility of freshwater fisheries impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to receive CARES Act dollars
Creates a task force to study and make recommendations for replenishing the unemployment trust fund and increasing the unemployment compensation weekly benefit amount (Item #8)
Employment security: administration; quarterly report to the unemployment insurance agency ombudsman related to rulings appealed and forwarded to the Board of Appeals Commission; require. Amends 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.1 - 421.75) by adding sec. 32f. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4372'23