The bill amends R.S.43:21-5 to refine the eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits, particularly for individuals who leave work voluntarily or are discharged. It establishes that those who leave voluntarily without good cause will be disqualified from benefits for the week of departure and until they secure new employment that meets specific earnings criteria. Additionally, individuals discharged for misconduct will face a disqualification period of one week plus five subsequent weeks, with the employer responsible for proving the misconduct.

The bill also introduces protections for individuals leaving work due to domestic violence or to accompany a military spouse. It ensures that those who leave for these reasons will not be denied benefits, and employers will not be charged for these benefits. Furthermore, it clarifies that individuals who leave work due to being detained on charges that are later dismissed, not prosecuted, or result in a not guilty verdict will not be denied benefits. The Department of Labor and Workforce Development will determine eligibility in these cases, and employers will be shielded from financial repercussions related to these specific benefits. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.