The bill amends the Michigan Employment Security Act to modernize unemployment benefits, particularly in relation to retirement benefits and seasonal employment. It establishes that benefits will be payable to unemployed individuals as long as they continue to file claims and remain unemployed, with a gradual increase in the maximum weekly benefit rate from $362.00 to $614.00 over the next few years. The bill also updates the definition of dependents and replaces outdated terms like "husband or wife" with "spouse." Additionally, it clarifies how retirement benefits will affect unemployment benefits, specifying that if an individual's retirement benefit equals or exceeds their unemployment benefit rate, they will be ineligible for unemployment benefits.

Furthermore, the bill outlines specific provisions for seasonal workers, stating that benefits are only available during the normal seasonal work period and requiring employers to notify employees of their seasonal status. It mandates that the unemployment insurance agency display the status of seasonal employers and post notices regarding seasonal work periods. The bill also includes stipulations for the adjustment of benefit amounts based on the Consumer Price Index starting in 2026 and clarifies conditions under which benefits are not payable for services as school crossing guards during academic breaks. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more equitable and efficient unemployment benefits system in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 421.27