House Bill No. by Representative Hebert aims to amend and reenact certain provisions of Louisiana's unemployment benefits law, specifically focusing on work search requirements for claimants. The bill modifies the eligibility criteria by requiring individuals to actively seek work through a minimum of five work search actions each week they claim benefits, replacing the previous requirement of conducting an "active search for work." Additionally, the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC) will define what constitutes valid work search actions. The bill also stipulates that claimants must adhere to their approved reemployment assistance plans while satisfying these new work search requirements.

Furthermore, the bill revises the disqualification criteria for unemployment benefits. It removes the requirement for claimants to apply for suitable work only when directed by the administrator and instead mandates that they must accept suitable work within the specified timeframe when offered. Other disqualifying actions include failing to appear for scheduled job interviews or participate in approved training programs. To enhance compliance, the bill requires the LWC to create a form for employers to report suspected violations of these work search requirements electronically and to inform employers annually about the importance of reporting such violations. The proposed changes will take effect on December 31, 2025.

Statutes affected:
HB153 Original: 23:1600(3), 23:1601(3)