The bill amends the Michigan Employment Security Act, specifically section 29, to clarify the disqualifying circumstances for unemployment benefits. Key insertions include a comprehensive list of reasons for disqualification, such as voluntarily leaving work without good cause, failing to diligently seek suitable employment, and being discharged for misconduct. It establishes a rebuttable presumption against individuals who miss job interviews or fail to report to work without notice, indicating they have not applied diligently for available work. Additionally, individuals must provide substantial evidence to counter the presumption of voluntary leaving without good cause. The bill also introduces provisions for those leaving work for medical reasons related to COVID-19, allowing certain claims to be treated as involuntary under specific conditions.

Moreover, the bill outlines the requalification process for individuals disqualified from benefits, detailing the requirements for regaining eligibility. It ensures that benefits paid under certain disqualifying circumstances will not impact the employer's experience account but will instead be charged to a nonchargeable benefits account. The bill also clarifies that if a disqualifying act occurs during a benefit year, any future benefits based on employment with the disqualifying employer will be charged to a nonchargeable account. It specifies conditions under which individuals leaving work for permanent full-time employment or a recall from a former employer will not be disqualified. Additionally, it outlines criteria for suitable work and conditions for refusing work without losing benefits, while deleting a temporary provision that previously allowed individuals leaving for permanent full-time employment to be eligible for benefits without performing services for the new employer.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 421.29