The bill amends existing laws regarding unemployment insurance for part-time workers in Washington State, specifically addressing the definition of suitable work and eligibility for benefits. It introduces new provisions for part-time workers with claims effective before August 3, 2025, allowing them to be considered suitable for work that is 17 hours or fewer per week. For claims effective on or after this date, part-time workers must seek work that meets or exceeds their average weekly hours from their base year. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals who were not part-time workers in their base year cannot be denied benefits for being unavailable for full-time work due to specific personal circumstances, provided they are available for at least 20 hours of work per week.

The bill also revises the definition of a part-time worker, specifying that they must have earned wages in at least 40 weeks during their base year and worked, on average, less than 35 hours per week. The amendments aim to enhance the support for part-time workers in the unemployment insurance system, ensuring that their unique circumstances are taken into account when determining eligibility for benefits.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 50.20.119
Substitute Bill: 50.20.100, 50.20.119