New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SCR131

Introduced
12/1/22  

Caption

Urges DOLWD to plan for large influxes of unemployment insurance claims.

Impact

SCR131 specifically addresses the need for the DOLWD to enhance its capabilities in managing unemployment claims, particularly in light of previous criticism regarding its inefficient response during economic downturns. The resolution acknowledges the systemic failures that resulted in delayed payments for many residents during the pandemic, where individuals faced difficulties accessing benefits due to a crashing filing system and lengthy waiting periods for aid. By urging for proactive measures, the resolution aims to prevent similar outcomes in any future economic crises.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 131, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, urges the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD) to create a robust plan for processing a large influx of unemployment insurance claims. This resolution is positioned in response to the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic when New Jersey experienced an overwhelming surge in unemployment claims, revealing significant flaws in the DOLWD's existing claims filing system. The bill sponsors believe that preparations for future crises are crucial to ensure that workers have timely access to necessary unemployment benefits.

Contention

The concurrent resolution is rooted in the contention that the DOLWD has inadequately addressed ongoing deficiencies in its systems for almost two decades. With recognized vulnerabilities in the filing process and past crises exposing these shortcomings, there is a call for substantial system improvements supported by appropriate funding. However, debates may arise around the urgency of these enhancements and the allocation of state resources, as some may argue that immediate and enhanced actions are necessary to shield vulnerable workers from future hardships.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ SCR51

Urges DOLWD to plan for large influxes of unemployment insurance claims.

NJ SR71

Urges Governor and Commissioner of DOLWD to reopen One-Stop Career Centers.

NJ SR66

Urges Governor to resume in-person services at DOLWD.

NJ SR18

Urges Governor to resume in-person services at DOLWD.

NJ SR66

Urges Governor to immediately address unemployment claim backlog and reopen State offices closed to public.

NJ AR119

Urges Governor to resume in-person services at DOLWD.

NJ S2382

Requires DOLWD to process unemployment claims within two weeks of filing.

NJ S937

Requires DOLWD to process unemployment claims within two weeks of filing.

NJ A1254

Requires DOLWD to process unemployment claims within two weeks of filing.

NJ A3436

Requires DOLWD to process unemployment claims within two weeks of filing.

Similar Bills

CA SB39

Fraudulent claims: inmates.

CA SB1414

Employment Development Department: reporting requirements.

NJ SCR51

Urges DOLWD to plan for large influxes of unemployment insurance claims.

CA AB400

Unemployment insurance: Unemployment Insurance Oversight Advisory Board.

NJ AR51

Adopts articles of impeachment concerning Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development.

NJ AR123

Adopts articles of impeachment concerning Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development.

NJ A4210

Requires DOLWD to establish mobile unit program to provide unemployment compensation insurance assistance and services.

NJ S2748

Requires DOLWD to establish mobile unit program to provide unemployment compensation insurance assistance and services.