The bill HB29 Engrossed amends the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically Sections 25-4-77 and 25-4-78, to revise the eligibility criteria for unemployment compensation. A notable change is the requirement for unemployed individuals to contact a greater number of prospective employers to maintain their benefits—three per week for those in counties with populations under 20,000 and five for those in larger counties. Additionally, claimants must provide proof of their job search efforts and are prohibited from contacting the same employer unless that employer has indicated they are hiring since the last contact. The bill also clarifies disqualification criteria, specifying circumstances such as involvement in labor disputes or voluntary resignation without good cause that may lead to disqualification.

Further amendments address issues related to sickness, disability, and drug testing. The bill stipulates that individuals must notify their employer of their inability to work and comply with established leave policies to avoid disqualification. It introduces a conclusive presumption of impairment for employees who test positive for drugs, leading to disqualification from benefits if they have received prior warnings. The bill also clarifies the treatment of back pay awards, ensuring that benefits paid during those weeks are considered overpayments. Other provisions include the treatment of pension payments and the eligibility of aliens for benefits, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to tighten the requirements for unemployment compensation while ensuring clarity and accountability in the process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 25-4-77, 25-4-78
Engrossed: 25-4-77, 25-4-78