Maryland House Bill HB955

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/22
• Refer: 2/10/22

Caption

Unemployment Insurance - Procedures for Recovery of Overpayment of Benefits - Alterations

Impact

The legislation introduces explicit requirements for the Secretary to issue written notice to claimants, detailing the alleged basis for the belief that overpayment has occurred. This includes specific facts, the legal basis for the claim, and instructions on how the claimant can contest the findings. The bill secures the right of claimants to appeal overpayment determinations within a specified timeframe, thereby preventing arbitrary recovery actions and ensuring that individuals can adequately respond to claims of overpayment.

Summary

House Bill 955 proposes significant alterations to the procedures surrounding the recovery of overpaid unemployment insurance benefits in Maryland. The core intention of this bill is to enhance the fairness and transparency in the recovery process by mandating the Secretary of Labor to conduct a predetermination investigation prior to initiating recovery actions against claimants. This change aims to provide clear communication to claimants regarding any potential overpayments and the basis upon which such recovery actions may be pursued.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 955 may lead to debates over the balance between necessary state oversight and the protection of individual rights. Supporters argue that these reforms are essential for protecting claimants from wrongful recovery actions and fostering trust in the unemployment insurance system. Conversely, opponents might express concerns regarding the administrative burden on the Secretary's office and the potential for delays in recovering legitimate overpayments. The bill underscores the importance of administrative due process while navigating the complexities of unemployment insurance recovery.