Massachusetts House Bill H1926

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

To increase unemployment insurance benefits for low wage workers

Summary

House Bill 1926 aims to increase unemployment insurance benefits specifically for low wage workers in Massachusetts. The bill proposes amendments to section 24 and section 29 of chapter 151A of the General Laws, which governs unemployment benefits. The key changes include an increase in the amount of unemployment benefits that a worker can receive to better reflect their actual wages, which is critical in protecting low-income individuals during periods of unemployment. One of the major amendments specifies that for individuals in total unemployment, they shall be paid for each week an amount equal to fifty percent of their average weekly wage in the base period, while ensuring that the benefits do not fall below twenty percent of the average weekly wage. Additionally, the bill changes the calculation methodology for determining the weekly benefit rate, thereby ensuring a higher baseline for financial assistance during unemployment, aligning benefits closer to workers' actual earnings rather than a fixed multiple of historical rates. The implications of H1926 on state laws are significant, as it seeks to recalibrate how unemployment benefits are calculated, thereby potentially increasing financial relief for thousands of low wage workers across the state. This adjustment is intended to address the rising cost of living and support economic stability for vulnerable populations during job loss, thus enhancing income security. Notably, there may be contention surrounding the bill, especially regarding funding sources for the increased benefits. Questions about the sustainability of higher unemployment payouts during economic downturns and potential impacts on state budgets may arise. Legislators who oppose the bill might argue that increasing benefits could lead to higher taxes or funding cuts in other essential services, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that considers both the financial health of the state and support for its workers.