Senate Bill 677 proposes various amendments to Wisconsin's unemployment insurance (UI) law, primarily aimed at updating benefit structures and enhancing compliance measures. Notably, the bill raises the maximum weekly UI benefit rate from $370 to $395 while maintaining the minimum benefit rate at $54. It introduces stricter work search requirements, allowing employers to report instances where claimants decline job interviews or offers, which could lead to ineligibility 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.

The bill also includes provisions for electronic filing and reporting, making it mandatory for employers to use electronic methods unless they can demonstrate good cause for not doing so. It establishes identity-proofing measures for claimants and requires the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to conduct audits on work search compliance, ensuring that at least 50% of claimants receiving benefits are audited. Furthermore, the bill imposes a $5,000 penalty for individuals who attempt to fraudulently claim benefits in another person's name, even if no benefits were obtained. Overall, these changes aim to streamline the UI process, enhance fraud detection, and ensure that claimants are actively seeking suitable work.

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