Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2149

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to non-fault unemployment insurance overpayments

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter how unemployment overpayments are handled within the state. One of the critical adjustments is the establishment of a cap of ten percent on deductions from future benefits pertaining to overpayments identified as non-fault. Additionally, it introduces a three-year timeframe for the cancellation of restitution owed when the individual has not been found at fault. These changes are likely to make the process of managing unemployment claims more equitable and streamlined for those affected.

Summary

House Bill 2149 focuses on addressing non-fault unemployment insurance overpayments in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill seeks to amend Chapter 151A of the General Laws by establishing clearer guidelines for the Department of Unemployment Assistance regarding the recovery of overpayments when the recipient is not at fault. This includes a provision that the department must waive recovery of such overpayments under specified circumstances, aiming to reduce the financial burden on individuals who received incorrect payments through no fault of their own.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to benefit many individuals facing financial strains due to overpayments, there are likely to be discussions around the balance of the department's enforcement powers. Some stakeholders may express concern about the effectiveness of established timelines for waivers and how they may be implemented. The requirement for the department to assess fault before taking recovery actions could also lead to debates on administrative efficiency and the potential for delays in benefit processing.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H1922

Relative to non-fault unemployment insurance overpayments

MA S1162

Relative to non-fault unemployment insurance overpayments

MA S1151

Relative to municipal unemployment insurance reform

MA S1226

Relative to unemployment insurance

MA S1175

To increase unemployment insurance benefits for low wage workers

MA H1926

To increase unemployment insurance benefits for low wage workers

MA S694

Relative to unemployment insurance benefits for replacement workers

MA H1947

Relative to unemployment compensation and labor disputes

MA H1831

Relative to unemployment compensation and labor disputes

MA S1172

Relative to unemployment compensation and labor disputes

Similar Bills

CA SB479

Termination of tenancy: no-fault just cause: natural person.

CA SB1138

Unemployment insurance: report: self-employed individuals.

CA AB3329

Unemployment insurance compensation: COVID-19 pandemic: temporary benefits.

CA AB1066

Unemployment compensation: benefits payable: collection.

CA AB397

Unemployment insurance: benefits: disqualification: notice.

MI SB0962

Employment security: benefits; hardship application waiver; modify. Amends secs. 28, 28d, 29a, 32a, 33 & 62 of 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.28 et seq.).

CA AB2184

Unemployment insurance: benefits: eligibility.

CA AB19

School districts: members of the governing board.