MI
Michigan House Bill HB4372

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB4372

Introduced
4/11/23  

Caption

Legislature: legislative agencies; unemployment insurance agency ombudsman; create. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4370'23, HB 4374'23

Impact

This legislation will significantly impact state laws concerning how complaints regarding unemployment benefits are managed. By creating the Office of the Unemployment Insurance Advocate, the bill ensures that there is an oversight mechanism for complaints against administrative acts of the unemployment agency. The advocate will handle investigations, provide guidance on the benefits process, and ensure that claimants are not penalized for filing complaints or cooperating in investigations. This move is aimed at enhancing service for individuals who may be navigating the complexities of unemployment claims.

Summary

House Bill 4372 establishes the Office of the Unemployment Insurance Advocate in Michigan. The primary objective of this bill is to create a designated authority that assists claimants and employers with issues related to unemployment benefits and administrative actions by the unemployment agency. The advocate will serve as a resource for individuals submitting complaints and will have the authority to investigate claims and matters related to unemployment benefits, prospects, and taxes, thereby promoting transparency and accountability within the unemployment system.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve the handling of unemployment claims, some may argue about the potential bureaucratic implications of adding another layer of oversight in an already complex system. There might be concerns regarding how the advocate's authority overlaps with existing agencies, and whether it may inadvertently complicate rather than simplify the complaints process. Additionally, operational issues such as the advocate's accessibility and responsiveness could be points of contention, especially if the advocate does not have sufficient resources or autonomy to act effectively.

Latest HB4372 Activity

Companion Bills

MI HB4374

Same As Employment security: other; requirement for complete case files when submitting information for an adjudication hearing; provide for. Amends 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.1 - 421.75) by adding sec. 32e. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4372'23

MI HB4370

Same As Employment security: administration; quarterly report to the unemployment insurance agency ombudsman related to rulings appealed and forwarded to the Board of Appeals Commission; require. Amends 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.1 - 421.75) by adding sec. 32f. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4372'23

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