Various changes to the unemployment insurance law. (FE)
In addition to identity verification, the bill extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting fraud related to unemployment insurance to eight years, specifically for fraud cases that involve benefits awarded under the federal CARES Act. This extension aims to provide a longer window for authorities to investigate and prosecute those involved in fraudulent claims, thereby strengthening accountability within the system. Overall, these measures are seen as necessary responses to the challenges posed by increased claims and instances of fraud, particularly during economic crises.
Assembly Bill 168 introduces significant changes to Wisconsin's unemployment insurance laws, primarily aimed at enhancing the integrity and efficiency of the unemployment benefits system. One key aspect of the bill mandates the implementation of identity-proofing measures for individuals filing claims, which aims to ensure proper verification of identity to prevent fraudulent activities. This will require the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to adopt specific standards for identity verification based on National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines.
A notable point of contention surrounding AB168 involves the balance between strengthening fraud prevention and maintaining accessibility for legitimate claimants. Critics may raise concerns regarding the potential for additional bureaucracy and the challenges involved in implementing the new verification processes, which could inadvertently hinder legitimate individuals from accessing benefits amid ongoing economic recovery efforts. Furthermore, the extension of the statute of limitations could also lead to debates regarding fairness and the rights of individuals accused of fraud, as they may face legal repercussions long after the alleged incidents.
To support the changes, the bill also requires DWD to provide educational resources and training for both employers and claimants. This includes publishing informational materials on how the unemployment system works and offering live training seminars. Additionally, a designated call center is to be established to assist claimants, especially during periods of high volume of claims, ensuring that individuals can receive timely help and guidance through the application process.