The bill amends R.S.43:21-19 to exempt wages earned by poll workers from affecting their eligibility for unemployment compensation. This change is designed to encourage individuals who are unemployed to participate in the electoral process without the fear of losing their unemployment benefits due to the temporary wages they earn while serving as members of a district board of elections. The new language specifies that compensation received for election duties will not be counted against unemployment benefits, thereby removing financial disincentives for those wishing to contribute to their community.
In addition to the exemption for poll workers, the bill clarifies various definitions and conditions related to employment under the unemployment compensation law. It introduces new definitions for legal transcription services and updates terms such as "employment office," "unemployment," and "wages." The bill also deletes outdated legal language to ensure that the regulations governing unemployment benefits are current and relevant. Overall, these amendments aim to provide clearer guidelines for determining employment status and eligibility for unemployment benefits, with the changes set to take effect immediately upon passage.