The bill HB29 Engrossed amends Sections 25-4-77 and 25-4-78 of the Code of Alabama 1975, primarily increasing the number of prospective employers that unemployed individuals must contact to maintain eligibility for unemployment compensation. Specifically, individuals in counties with populations under 20,000 must contact at least three prospective employers weekly, while those in larger counties must contact at least five. The bill also mandates that claimants provide proof of their job search efforts when filing weekly certifications and prohibits contacting the same employer unless they have indicated they are hiring since the initial contact. Additionally, it allows the Governor to suspend the work search requirement during a state of emergency. The bill includes technical revisions, such as clarifying the definition of "reasonable and active effort" and modifying disqualification criteria, ensuring individuals are not disqualified for leaving work due to illness or disability if they notify their employer.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions regarding unemployment benefits in cases of confirmed positive drug tests, stating that no benefits will be granted to employees who test positive for illegal drugs after receiving a written warning about the consequences. It also modifies existing language to streamline the disqualification process and ensures that benefits paid to disqualified individuals do not impact the employer's experience rating account. Other amendments clarify the impact of pension payments, workers' compensation, and training allowances on unemployment benefits, while removing restrictions based on employment status or alien status. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, aiming to refine regulations surrounding unemployment benefits and ensure fair treatment for individuals seeking employment.

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