Bill > SB01219

This bill increases the threshold amount for unemployment compensation fraud from $500 to $2,000, changing the classification of the offense based on the amount of fraudulently obtained benefits. Currently, if an individual knowingly makes a false statement or fails to disclose a material fact to obtain unemployment benefits fraudulently, they would be charged with a class A misdemeanor if the amount is $500 or less, and a class D felony if the amount exceeds $500. Under the new legislation, the same offense would be a misdemeanor if the amount is $2,000 or less, and a felony if the amount is more than $2,000. The bill also maintains the existing five-year statute of limitations for prosecuting such violations, which begins from the date the offense was committed. This change effectively raises the bar for when unemployment compensation fraud becomes a felony, potentially reducing the number of individuals facing more serious criminal charges for smaller fraudulent claims.

Justice, Labor and Employment

Labor and Public Employees Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB01219&which_year=2025