HARRISBURG – The Senate Labor and Industry Committee, chaired by Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37), advanced legislation to clarify the Unemployment Compensation (UC) Law regarding claimants who take actions to discourage their own hire.
Senate Bill 153, introduced by Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) makes clear that refusing to attend a job interview or a referral for employment in suitable work without good cause constitutes a refusal of work and is therefore disqualifying.
“As chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, I am dedicated to ensuring our unemployment compensation laws are as clear and concise as possible,” said Robinson. “This bill would ensure that compensation is given to claimants who are actively seeking new employment. I appreciate Sen. Brooks introducing this legislation and am pleased to support it.”
Current UC law requires claimants to look for work by applying for two jobs per week and completing one work search activity, barring a few narrow exceptions.
This legislation would not create new policy but instead clarifies the existing intent of the UC law.
The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: Eric Kratz