The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Employment Security Law, focusing on unemployment benefits, wage claims, and eligibility criteria. Key changes include the limitation of wage claims to the same dollar amount as small claims in district court and the introduction of new definitions for "able to work," ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not automatically deemed unavailable for work. The bill also clarifies that claimants withdrawing from the labor market due to illness or injury are ineligible for benefits until they can work, with exceptions for those whose illness begins after applying. Additionally, it establishes new definitions for base periods and outlines the process for appealing wage claim determinations, emphasizing timely responses to department notices.

Further amendments address the responsibilities of employers regarding claims of non-covered employment and introduce stricter reporting requirements. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which a claimant may be deemed to have left employment with "good cause," specifying that reasons must be connected to working conditions or job tasks. It introduces a new section defining "workplace misconduct" and outlines penalties for employers who fail to comply with reporting requirements. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the unemployment benefits process, enhance clarity regarding eligibility, and ensure equitable treatment of all claimants, including those with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 45-617, 72-1304, 72-1306, 72-1312A, 72-1315, 72-1316, 72-1316A, 72-1319, 72-1327A, 72-1328, 72-1337, 72-1342, 72-1349, 72-1349B, 72-1350, 72-1351, 72-1351A, 72-1352A, 72-1357, 72-1365, 72-1366, 72-1367, 72-1367A, 72-1368, 72-1374, 72-1346A, 72-1372