The bill HB2108 modifies Arizona's Unemployment Insurance (UI) eligibility requirements by mandating that unemployed individuals actively seek suitable work, specifically requiring at least five work search actions each week. This includes submitting resumes, completing job applications, and attending job fairs, along with a weekly report of these activities. The bill removes the previous requirement of making at least one job contact per day over four days, thereby streamlining the work search criteria.

Additionally, the bill enhances the verification process for UI claims by requiring the Department of Economic Security (DES) to cross-check claims against various data sets before benefits are disbursed. It prohibits payment of benefits until these checks are completed and introduces stricter disqualification criteria for individuals who fail to meet the new work search requirements. The disqualification period is extended until the individual earns wages equivalent to eight times their weekly benefit amount, and employers are now required to report instances of former employees refusing work or missing interviews. Overall, the bill aims to tighten eligibility and improve the integrity of the UI system, though it has faced criticism for potentially creating barriers for unemployed workers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-634.01, 23-773, 23-776, 23-673, 23-778
House Engrossed Version: 23-634.01, 23-771, 23-773, 23-776, 23-772, 23-775, 23-777, 23-363, 23-622, 23-615, 23-779, 23-609, 13-3601, 13-3601.02, 23-727, 23-673, 23-778
Senate Engrossed Version: 23-634.01, 23-762, 23-763, 23-771, 23-773, 23-776, 23-780, 23-621, 23-772, 23-775, 23-777, 23-363, 23-622, 23-615, 23-779, 23-609, 13-3601, 13-3601.02, 23-727, 23-673, 23-778