The new West Virginia legislation mandates unemployed individuals to strengthen their job-seeking efforts to avail state benefits. This law, enacted without the signature of Republican Gov. Jim Justice, will go into action on July 1. It stipulates that beneficiaries of unemployment must undertake a minimum of four work-search activities per week, like job applications or civil service examinations.

The law also imposes a ceiling on the unemployment benefits rates at the existing highest of $622 a week, not allowing for inflation adjustments. Simultaneously, it allows recipients to work part-time while looking for full-time employment. Currently, the average benefits are around $420 a week.

The driving force behind this particular law comes from supporters fearing for the long-term solvency of the state’s unemployment trust fund. While a version of this bill, passed by the Senate, aimed to decrease the benefit coverage duration from 26 to 24 weeks, the legislation as it stands currently was a compromise between the House of Delegates and the Senate.

If you’re an unemployed individual facing these changes and need to clarify your situation, contacting the appropriate authorities is essential. If you’re a resident of California, eddcaller.com can be your go-to resource for all critical EDD (Employment Development Department) contact information. This website helps break down different methods to get a hold of EDD representatives- a much-needed service when navigating changing policies. Their exhaustive guide includes how to get in touch with a live person at the Employment Development Department in California, facilitating more effective communication and resolution.