Unemployment Benefits in West Virginia Could Be Changed

The unemployment benefits in West Virginia might have major changes after the state senate approved the state’s unemployment system.

Unemployment benefits might have major changes in West Virginia. (Photo: MARCA)

Changes in Unemployment Benefits

State lawmakers in West Virginia proposed some major changes in unemployment benefits. The number of weeks that unemployed individuals in the state can collect might be reduced once it is passed and signed into law by the state Governor.

According to a published report in WOW KTV News, lawmakers in West Virginia would like some flexibility in unemployment benefits.  They based the legislation on how the economy fluctuates in the state with the ups and downs of the fossil fuel economy.

Under the new bill, the unemployment benefit will become 12 weeks, if the unemployment rate is low, instead of receiving 26 weeks. On the other hand, 20 weeks of unemployment benefits will be given to eligible residents in the state if the unemployment is getting worse.

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State Lawmakers Released a Statement

State Sen. Tom Takubo, Majority Leader, said, “Between there and 26 weeks so see very little change, which usually indicates people aren’t actively trying to get that active employment. And when we have a workforce participation, one of the worst in the country, we want to try to help those people get back in the workforce.”

On the other hand, State Sen. Mike Caputo, Minority Whip, also said, “I have been on unemployment before. I have survived on unemployment benefits before. I know how difficult it is when things are bad and you are out there struggling and trying to find work to take care of your family.”

Furthermore, the bill is now heading to the House of Delegates. It is also expected that the bill will pass there.

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