The bill amends Chapter 13 of Title 72 of the Idaho Code to enhance the integrity of the employment security system by introducing new definitions for "knowingly" and "willfully" in employment security law. "Knowingly" is defined as having actual knowledge or acting with deliberate ignorance or reckless disregard for prohibitions, while "willfully" refers to making false statements or failing to disclose material facts intentionally, without needing to prove specific intent to defraud. The bill also revises provisions regarding employer experience ratings, claimant violations, and criminal penalties for misrepresentations, while establishing new measures to address employment security identity theft.

Additionally, the bill clarifies conditions under which claimants may be denied benefits and introduces stricter penalties for fraudulent claims, including a tiered disqualification system based on the number of violations. It allows the director to collect overpayments and civil penalties through various methods, with specific time limits for recovery based on the nature of the overpayment. The bill also addresses identity theft related to employment security, classifying it as a felony and ensuring victims receive restitution. These changes aim to tighten regulations and clarify responsibilities for both employers and claimants, with the bill set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 72-1351A, 72-1366, 72-1369, 72-1360, 72-1371