Oregon Considers Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers
The Oregon Employment Department is currently considering significant changes to the state's unemployment law. The proposed rules would remove the disqualification from unemployment compensation for striking workers, potentially allowing them to receive benefits while on strike. This is a notable development with potential implications for employers, employees, and the state's unemployment insurance fund. The state held a series of [...]
FUTA Taxes for 2025 Likely to Increase in California and Virgin Islands and Decrease in New York
In January of 2025, the US Department of Labor released its notice of potential FUTA offset credit reductions for 2025. California, Connecticut, New York and the Virgin Islands had potential FUTA offset credit reductions for 2025 and interest on loans to be paid. California, Connecticut and New York also were shown as at risk of a Benefit Cost Rate Additional [...]
Federal Legislation Introduced to Prohibit Paying Unemployment Compensation to Striking Workers
Earlier this month, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) introduced the Securing Help for Involuntary Employment Loss and Displacement (SHIELD) Act. The legislation would clarify federal law after recent state legislation was introduced and passed permitting striking workers to be paid unemployment compensation while on strike. The vast majority of states already have provisions in state law that effectively prohibit payment in [...]
US House Passes Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act to Extend Authority 5 Years
On March 11, 2025, the US House of Representatives passed the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act (HR 1156) with a bi-partisan vote of 295-127. The bill extends authority for criminal prosecution and recovery of fraudulently claimed unemployment compensation paid under the CARES Act. See Rules Committee Text at BILLS-119hr1156rh.pdf UWC supports enactment of this legislation and submitted the attached letter of [...]
President Trump Announces Regulatory Reform UI and Workers’ Compensation
On February 19, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order asking federal agencies to review regulations and report back to the White House with reforms needed to be consistent with law and Trump administration policy. The EO is available at Ensuring Lawful Governance and Implementing the President's "Department of Government Efficiency" Regulatory Initiative – The White House The EO requires that [...]
Recognizing Outstanding Contributions and Service in Unemployment Insurance
Don’t miss the deadline to submit your nomination of individuals to be recognized for their contributions to Unemployment Insurance policy and administration. Nominations are Open to March 15, 2025! Each year we accept nominations for awards to individuals who have had a profound impact on the Unemployment Insurance system as researchers, policy leaders and contributors to the integrity of the [...]