The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Employment Security Law, focusing on unemployment benefits and wage claims. Key changes include the introduction of new definitions for "able to work" and "available for suitable work," which clarify claimant expectations regarding their work capabilities. The bill also establishes new base periods for determining unemployment benefits and modifies the eligibility criteria for corporate officers, specifying that they are not considered unemployed during their term unless certain conditions are met. Additionally, it includes provisions for dismissing wage claims if claimants do not respond to departmental notices within a specified timeframe.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the clarity of existing laws by revising definitions and procedures related to unemployment benefits, including the calculation of maximum weekly benefits based on average wages from the previous year. It introduces a new section defining "workplace misconduct" and outlines the criteria for determining such misconduct. The bill also establishes the "Federal Advance Interest Repayment Fund" to manage federal advances made to the state, along with penalties for employers who fail to comply with reporting requirements. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline processes, ensure compliance with updated legal standards, and enhance the effectiveness of the unemployment insurance system in Idaho.

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