Bill > HB2659

This bill amends the Unemployment Insurance Act to modify eligibility rules for academic personnel receiving unemployment benefits. Specifically, the bill removes previous time-limited language about COVID-19 period unemployment benefits, effectively making the expanded eligibility for educational institution employees permanent. Under the revised law, individuals who work in non-instructional, research, or administrative roles at educational institutions or educational service agencies can now receive unemployment benefits more flexibly. This means that even during periods between academic years or terms, or during vacation periods, such employees can potentially qualify for benefits if they do not have a guaranteed return to work. The bill eliminates previous restrictions that would have denied benefits during specific time frames (such as between March 15, 2020, and September 4, 2021), essentially providing more consistent unemployment support for educational workers in non-core roles. The change aims to provide greater financial protection for employees in the education sector who might previously have been ineligible for unemployment compensation during breaks or transitions between academic terms.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2659&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104