House Bill 131, proposed by State Representative Kerri Seekins-Crowe (R), is being discussed among legislators in Montana. The bill, if passed, would reduce the maximum duration of unemployment insurance benefits from 24 weeks down to 20 weeks. This follows the 2023 legislature which already decreased benefits from 28 to 24 weeks. Supporters of the bill, such as Seekins-Crowe, argue that it would motivate individuals to rejoin the workforce.

According to Dylan Klapmeier, the Governor’s Education and Workforce Policy Advisor, statistics from the Department of Labor and Industry reveal two job openings for every unemployed person in the state. Despite this, opponents believe that the bill could negatively impact low-income Montanans and discourage them from residing in the state. They assert that extended unemployment benefits could potentially provide an additional month’s rent, a mortgage payment, or cover utility bills for many families.

Amanda Frickle, the political director of the Montana AFL-CIO, argued that offering a suitable duration for unemployment benefits could help workers find work similar to their previous positions at similar wages. This, in turn, would help more families maintain financial stability. Multiple organizations, such as the Labors Local 1686, Montana Contractors Association, and Montana Nurses Association among others, voiced their opposition to the bill.

To summarize, Montana’s unemployment benefits average $445 a week per person. After the hearing, no action was taken on the bill.

It is crucial for those affected by these potential changes to know their rights and be informed about the status of their benefits. It is also helpful to know how to get a hold of EDD in case of any queries or confusion. The best way to do so is through the official website, eddcaller.com. Here, you can find accurate and up-to-date information, including contact details for EDD customer service.