The bill amends the Michigan Employment Security Act, specifically section 29, to clarify the disqualification criteria for unemployment benefits. It introduces specific circumstances that lead to disqualification, such as voluntarily leaving work without good cause attributable to the employer, and requires individuals to demonstrate that they left work involuntarily or for good cause. The bill also addresses involuntary departures due to medical reasons, particularly related to COVID-19, and allows the unemployment insurance agency to consider individuals laid off under certain health-related conditions. Additionally, it modifies the requalification process, establishing different requirements based on the nature of the disqualification and the benefit year, while ensuring that benefits paid to disqualified individuals do not impact the employer's experience account.

Furthermore, the bill outlines conditions under which individuals can leave work to accept new employment without facing disqualification, specifically if they accept permanent full-time work or a recall from a former employer. In such cases, benefits will be charged to the new employer. The unemployment insurance agency is also directed to consider various factors, including health risks and local job prospects, when assessing the suitability of work for individuals. The bill includes provisions regarding labor disputes, ensuring that individuals not directly involved in such disputes remain eligible for benefits. Overall, these amendments aim to provide clearer guidelines for disqualification and requalification for unemployment benefits in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 421.29