The bill amends the Michigan Employment Security Act, specifically section 29, to clarify the disqualification criteria for unemployment benefits. It introduces specific circumstances that can lead to disqualification, such as voluntarily leaving work without good cause, failing to diligently seek suitable employment, and being discharged for misconduct. A rebuttable presumption is established for individuals who leave work without contacting their employer for three consecutive days or reduce their working status to less than full-time, indicating they have left voluntarily without good cause. The bill also outlines the burden of proof for individuals claiming benefits, particularly in cases of involuntary departure due to medical reasons or COVID-19-related circumstances.

Additionally, the bill specifies that benefits paid to individuals leaving work under certain conditions, like military duty reassignment or domestic violence, will not affect the employer's experience account but will be charged to a nonchargeable benefits account. It introduces new requalification requirements for disqualified individuals, including earning a specified amount in employment. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which benefits may be reduced or denied, particularly regarding disqualifying acts occurring during an individual's benefit year, and it deletes a temporary provision that allowed individuals who left for permanent full-time employment to be eligible for benefits without performing services for the new employer.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 421.29