The bill H. 3477 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding unemployment insurance benefits. Specifically, it seeks to modify Section 41-35-50 to establish that the duration of unemployment benefits will be based on seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rates. The bill outlines a structured approach for calculating these rates based on specific three-month reference periods throughout the year. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Employment and Workforce will create regulations to ensure compliance with job search requirements and to prevent fraud, including the verification of attendance at job interviews.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 41-35-120, which addresses disqualification for benefits. It clarifies the conditions under which an individual may be deemed ineligible for benefits due to misconduct or other causes related to their employment. The proposed changes include a more detailed definition of misconduct and the duration of ineligibility based on the nature of the discharge. The act is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor and will apply to unemployment insurance claims with an effective date on or after October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 41-35-50, 41-35-120
Latest Version: 41-35-50, 41-35-120