Bill to Ease Access to Unemployment Insurance Signed Into Law

The Senate passed a bill on March 18, 2020 that waives the one-week waiting period for any person making a claim for unemployment benefits, if the unemployment is a result of any circumstances relating to or resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak or the effects of the Governor’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 10, 2020. The Legislature has taken this step so that workers impacted by COVID-19 can access the benefits they need right away.

“This is one step of many that the Senate will take to help stabilize our economy as we deal with this public health crisis, and it was crucial that we start with our workers,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Senate Working Group will continue to focus on issues facing our workers and advance legislation that can provide relief.”

“With today's swift passage of this bill, the Legislature is taking steps to provide immediate access to UI benefits for those impacted by the coronavirus outbreak," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Wesport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "We are committed to doing everything we can to provide relief to the Commonwealth's citizens, and we are resolved to continue working with our partners in the Administration and the House to ensure we get through this public health crisis together."

The unemployment insurance bill, which was signed by the Governor shortly after being passed by the Senate, is the latest action by the Senate to address the COVID-19 public health crisis and its impacts.  Last week, the Senate and House provided a$15 million infusion of funds to enhance the state’s Coronavirus response. The Senate also expects to act quickly on a bill to provide cities and towns with needed flexibility to address this unprecedented situation.