Oppose SB 5064 – “Concerning qualifications for unemployment insurance when an individual voluntarily leaves work”

January 18, 2021

Senate Bill 5064 would expand unemployment insurance (UI) benefits greatly at a time when the current UI trust fund is struggling to meet current obligations due to the pandemic.

For example, individuals who, in their own judgment, did not have it “within their means” to pay for the care of a family member would now be eligible for UI benefits. It would also allow benefits for those whose spouse or domestic partner moved due to a job transfer–expanding eligibility beyond military transfers to apply to anyone. Still, others would be eligible for benefits if their work shifts were altered, making it difficult to care for a child.

BIAW and other business groups oppose this tone-deaf expansion of benefits when the current UI system is at risk of being unable to pay existing benefits. A reminder: The UI system is funded 100% by employers.

This bill is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Committee on Labor, Commerce & Tribal Affairs committee at 10:30 am on Jan. 20.  Let your legislators know you oppose SB 5064 by completing this comment form. Tell them you oppose expanding benefits at a time when the current UI system is struggling to pay existing benefits.