Bill > HB2125

This bill modifies Oregon's unemployment benefits law to allow the Director of the Employment Department to waive the standard one-week unpaid waiting period for workers who are unable to work due to a state-declared severe weather emergency. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that permits the director to waive the waiting period through prescribed rules when individuals are temporarily unable to perform services for their employers because of a weather-related emergency declared under ORS 401.186. This change provides flexibility for workers who are prevented from working due to extreme weather conditions, ensuring they can more quickly access unemployment benefits. The amendments will apply to calendar quarters beginning on or after January 1, 2026, and the bill takes effect 91 days after the adjournment of the 2025 regular legislative session. Additionally, the bill includes technical provisions related to potential federal compliance issues and references to other unemployment insurance statutes, ensuring that the new provisions align with federal unemployment tax and social security requirements.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2125