Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB167

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/25
• Refer: 4/8/25
• Report Pass: 4/17/25
• Refer: 4/17/25
• Engrossed: 4/22/25
• Refer: 4/24/25

Caption

Various changes to the unemployment insurance law and requiring approval by the Joint Committee on Finance of certain federally authorized unemployment benefits. (FE)

Impact

The proposed changes are aimed at reinforcing employer authority while setting stricter guidelines for employees claiming unemployment benefits. By tightening the definition of misconduct and increasing the auditing of job search activities, AB167 appears to aim at reducing fraudulent claims and increasing accountability among claimants. Furthermore, claimants residing out of state will now be required to register with local job centers, creating a greater barrier to accessing unemployment benefits while enhancing the verification process.

Summary

Assembly Bill 167 introduces various amendments to the unemployment insurance (UI) laws in Wisconsin. These amendments begin with a reformation of what constitutes misconduct under the UI regulations, expanding the definition to include actions that employers previously could not cite without proving intent to deprive. This bill streamlines the process, allowing actions such as unauthorized possession of property or distribution of confidential information to be classified as misconduct regardless of intent. Moreover, it establishes clearer policies on absenteeism and tardiness, stating these may constitute misconduct if aligned with employer policies detailed in an employee handbook.

Contention

Notably, the bill stipulates that any federally funded benefit augmentations must receive passive review from the Joint Committee on Finance, which may lead to contention as federal actions may be delayed or obstructed. This requirement raises concerns over the responsiveness of state actions to federally mandated support, particularly during times of economic hardship. Critics argue that such controls limit the effectiveness of unemployment support, particularly in crises when timely enhancements to benefits could provide essential aid to displaced workers.