Bill > H1758

This bill establishes a special commission to study and report on the effectiveness of the current unemployment benefits eligibility system, which refers to the rules and processes governing who can receive unemployment payments and for how long. The commission will be composed of various officials, including the Secretary of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce (or their representative), the Director of Unemployment Insurance (or their representative), the Director of the Department of Career Services (or their representative), the Chairs of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce in both the House and Senate (or their representatives), and representatives from business groups like the Associated Industry of Massachusetts and the Small Business Association, as well as a representative from the Massachusetts AFL-CIO, and a minority appointment from each legislative leader. The commission's mandate is to investigate potential abuses of the unemployment benefit system, such as individuals repeatedly claiming benefits annually or semi-annually, those who consistently receive benefits during off-seasons of their employment, individuals not adhering to job search requirements or utilizing career service centers, and employers who fail to report layoffs or intentionally lay off employees with the intention of rehiring them. The commission is required to submit its findings and recommendations to the legislature by January 1, 2016.