Bill Tightens Restrictions on Unemployment Benefits

Bill tightens restrictions on unemployment benefits

(The Center Square) – Eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits would be tightened under a bill passed by the Florida House.

Florida House Approves New Hurdles on Already Strict and Stingy Jobless Benefits

The Florida House passed a bill Tuesday adding strict eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits, including mandatory weekly employer contacts and interview attendance. While Republicans argue the measure is necessary to stop fraud, Democrats contend it penalizes valid claimants in a system that already offers some of the nation's lowest benefits. The bill also mandates the Department of Commerce perform bi-weekly checks on claimants' in…

Florida House votes to add conditions for receiving unemployment benefits

GOP Rep. Shane Abbott introduced his legislation on the House floor on Feb. 17, 2026. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)Florida’s unemployment system has long been known as among the most penurious in the nation when it comes to cash assistance. Now critics say it will become even worse under a bill (HB 191) approved Tuesday by the Florida House of Representatives. The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Shane Abbott, R-DeFuniak Springs, says indivi…

House Approves New Hurdles For Jobless Benefits

TALLAHASSEE --- Tougher steps to qualify for unemployment benefits cleared the Florida House Tuesday.