This bill amends the Kansas employment security law to enhance the administration and integrity of unemployment benefits. It establishes that no amendments, suspensions, or repeals of employment security law provisions can occur through budget provisos or appropriations bills without following specified review procedures. The Secretary of Labor is authorized to approve employer-sponsored supplemental unemployment benefit plans that meet certain criteria, ensuring they do not disqualify employees from state benefits. The bill also updates various definitions, including "base period" and "employment," and introduces an "alternative base period" for individuals lacking sufficient wages in the standard base period. Additionally, it clarifies the treatment of wages, outlines the responsibilities of employers, and emphasizes the use of electronic submissions for claims and appeals.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits, particularly for individuals affected by domestic violence and those with alien status. It establishes penalties for fraudulent claims and outlines the responsibilities of employers regarding contributions and payments. The legislation also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in the administration of unemployment benefits, including the requirement for the Secretary of Labor to provide annual certifications of the trust fund's financial status. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the unemployment insurance framework in Kansas, ensuring compliance with federal standards while providing clarity and support for both claimants and employers.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 44-701, 44-777, 44-702, 44-703, 44-704, 44-704a, 44-704b, 44-705, 44-706, 44-709, 44-709b, 44-710, 44-710a, 44-710b, 44-710d, 44-710e, 44-710f, 44-710i, 44-711, 44-712, 44-713, 44-713a, 44-714, 44-715, 44-716, 44-716a, 44-717, 44-718, 44-719, 44-720, 44-721, 44-722, 44-723, 44-724, 44-725, 44-727, 44-757, 44-758, 44-759, 44-760, 44-765, 44-766, 44-767, 44-768, 44-769, 44-770, 44-772, 44-773, 44-774, 44-775, 79-3234