Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB101

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/23
• Refer: 3/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Creating an ineligibility period in the Medical Assistance and FoodShare programs for voluntary employment termination. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of this bill is anticipated to significantly alter the landscape of welfare support within the state. By imposing a six-month waiting period for individuals who voluntarily leave their jobs, the bill seeks to reduce reliance on public assistance programs among those eligible. Proponents argue that this will create a stronger labor market by motivating individuals to remain in their jobs. Conversely, opponents fear that it could disproportionately affect low-income residents, particularly if they leave work for legitimate reasons that may not be adequately accounted for in the bill's exceptions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 101 introduces an ineligibility period for certain individuals within the Medical Assistance (MA) and FoodShare programs. Specifically, it applies to able-bodied adults who choose to voluntarily terminate their employment. Under this new regulation, these individuals would be disqualified from receiving MA and FoodShare benefits for a period of six months after the date of their last paycheck. The bill aims to encourage sustained employment and dissuade voluntary job termination among able-bodied adults who might otherwise seek welfare benefits post-employment.

Contention

Notable contention surrounds the specifics of how the bill applies to voluntary employment termination, as it outlines specific scenarios wherein individuals would not be subjected to the ineligibility period. These scenarios include terminations due to employer directives to violate the law, cases of sexual harassment, the illness of the employee or a family member requiring care, and other mitigating circumstances. Critics argue that the bill may not sufficiently cover all valid reasons for termination, potentially leaving vulnerable populations without necessary security during transitions between jobs.