The bill amends Section 28-42-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 28-42, which deals with Employment Security General Provisions, by introducing a new section titled "Definitions." This section includes key terms relevant to the context of unemployment insurance. A significant update is made to the definition of "Partial unemployment," which extends the period for certain wage calculations from June 30, 2026, to June 30, 2029. It specifies that starting from May 23, 2021, employees will be considered partially unemployed if they earn less than 150% of their weekly benefit rate, with wages for this determination only including amounts exceeding 50% of the weekly benefit rate during the specified period.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 28-44-7 of the General Laws in Chapter 28-44, which pertains to Employment Security Benefits. It establishes that for weeks beginning on or after May 23, 2021, through June 30, 2029, eligible individuals who are partially unemployed will receive benefits equal to the weekly benefit rate for total unemployment, minus any wages earned that week. The total benefits cannot exceed 150% of the individual's weekly benefit rate. The bill extends the sunset date for these provisions from June 30, 2026, to June 30, 2029, ensuring continued support for individuals receiving partial unemployment benefits. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2929: 28-42-3, 28-44-7
2929  SUB A: 28-42-3, 28-44-7