The bill amends the Michigan Employment Security Act, specifically section 62, to clarify the procedures for recovering improperly paid unemployment benefits. It allows the unemployment insurance agency to recover benefits deemed improperly received through various methods, including deductions from future benefits or wages, cash payments, or tax refund deductions. The agency is required to issue a determination for restitution within three years of the final decision regarding benefit entitlement. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for waiving recovery of improperly paid benefits under certain conditions, such as when repayment would be contrary to equity and good conscience, or if the overpayment resulted from an administrative error.

Furthermore, the bill establishes stricter guidelines for cases involving intentional false statements or misrepresentations by claimants, including the cancellation of their rights to benefits for the benefit year in which the misconduct occurred. It mandates that the agency must conduct a thorough review before initiating recovery actions and provides for annual reporting on waiver applications and outcomes. The amendments aim to enhance the efficiency and fairness of the unemployment benefits system while ensuring that claimants are informed of their rights and the implications of overpayments.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 421.62