AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 50-7-303, relative to unemployment benefits.
Impact
The bill intends to reduce the number of individuals who may be receiving unemployment benefits without actively seeking employment. By setting a minimum requirement for job search activities and establishing penalties for non-compliance, including potential disqualification of benefits, the legislation seeks to encourage a more proactive approach to job seeking among unemployed individuals. This could potentially decrease the unemployment rate in Tennessee while also aiming to steady financial assistance levels within state programs.
Summary
Senate Bill 792 (SB0792) aims to amend Tennessee's laws regarding unemployment benefits, specifically Section 50-7-303 of the Tennessee Code Annotated. The primary focus of the bill is to enhance the accountability of individuals receiving unemployment benefits by imposing stricter work search requirements. It outlines that claimants must actively engage in a minimum of five work search activities per week to maintain their eligibility for unemployment benefits. This includes submitting job applications, attending interviews, and participating in job search workshops.
Contention
There may be notable points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly regarding its impact on individuals who are already struggling to find work in a competitive job market. Critics argue that imposing strict requirements could disproportionately affect those who face barriers, such as lack of access to transportation or job opportunities that match their skill sets. Furthermore, the necessity for real-time verification of job search activities could put additional pressure on vulnerable individuals who are already in a precarious financial situation. Supporters, however, maintain that these measures are essential to ensure that unemployment benefits serve their intended purpose and do not discourage active job search efforts.