Assembly Bill 652 proposes various amendments to Wisconsin's unemployment insurance (UI) law, primarily administered by the Department of Workforce Development (DWD). Key changes include raising the maximum weekly UI benefit rate from $370 to $395 while maintaining the minimum benefit rate at $54. The bill introduces stricter work search requirements, allowing employers to report instances where claimants decline job interviews or offers, which could render them ineligible for benefits. Additionally, the bill repeals the current prohibition on receiving UI benefits while also receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments, instead mandating that UI benefits be reduced by half of the SSDI amount received.

Other significant provisions include mandatory electronic filing and payment methods for employers, with specified exceptions for good cause, and the implementation of identity-proofing measures for claimants. The bill also requires DWD to conduct more thorough audits of claimants' work search compliance and to compare applicants against various state and national databases to detect fraud. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for individuals who attempt to obtain benefits fraudulently, including a new $5,000 penalty for false claims that do not result in benefits. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the unemployment insurance system while adjusting benefit structures to better serve claimants.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 108.04(2)(h), 108.04