In October, Massachusetts increased its maximum weekly unemployment benefit to $1,105, reflecting the state’s average weekly wage. This change follows the activation of a Massachusetts law that allows beneficiaries to collect unemployment for 30 weeks, which is the longest period offered in the United States.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) announced it will hold a webinar to address concerns about the state’s unemployment insurance system. The organization stated, “NFIB is hosting a webinar to explain the current Unemployment Insurance mess that keeps getting progressively worse. Employers are currently responsible for repaying nearly $5 billion in pandemic related UI debt while benefits continue to increase and the threat of a massive tax hike looms on the horizon if lawmakers fail to act.”
The webinar aims to inform business owners about the situation and discuss ways they can encourage elected officials to reform the unemployment insurance system. According to the NFIB, “Sign up for this FREE event to learn what you can do to help urge your elected officials to reform the state’s broken UI system. Register today!”
Employers in Massachusetts are currently responsible for repaying nearly $5 billion in unemployment insurance debt that was incurred during the pandemic. If lawmakers do not take action, there is a possibility of significant tax increases for businesses in the state.
