Bill > HB202

This bill modifies the employment security program in Missouri by making several significant changes to unemployment benefits eligibility and administrative processes. The bill introduces new provisions that tighten eligibility requirements and enhance fraud prevention measures. Specifically, it clarifies circumstances under which an individual might be disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits, such as voluntarily leaving work without good cause, failing to apply for or accept suitable work, or not responding to job interview offers. The bill establishes the "Employment Security Program Integrity Act of 2025," which mandates that the Division of Employment Security perform weekly checks against various databases, including incarceration records, death records, and new-hire records, to verify claimant eligibility. Additionally, the bill requires the division to implement multi-factor authentication for online applications, conduct full eligibility reviews for suspicious claims, and prioritize recovery of fraudulent or improper unemployment benefit overpayments. The legislation also requires welfare agencies to notify the division when an enrolled individual becomes employed and authorizes the division to enter into memorandums of understanding with other governmental entities to share necessary information. Finally, the bill requires the division to submit an annual report to the general assembly detailing improper payment recovery efforts and maintains the division's authority to create rules and regulations for implementing these new provisions.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB202&year=2025&code=R