Bill Positions

Bill Number: HB 91

Bill Title: Labor and Employment - Unemployment - Modernization and Tax Relief Act

Bill Sponsor(s): The Speaker (By Request - Administration)

Subject: Unemployment Insurance

Committee: ECM

Bill Summary: This emergency bill would alter provisions for UI benefit eligibility in the areas of alternate base period, part-time workers, and training. It would reduce the interest rate on certain late payments, and alter the imposition and calculation of tax rates, etc.

History:

Chamber Position: Support W/Amend

Position Summary: This bill has been heavily amended to address a number of concerns raised by the business community. Since its introduction the Maryland Chamber has strongly supported the provision to provide payment plans and reduced interest rates. To offset the costs associated with accepting federal stimulus money, the amended bill now also includes an estimated $18.2 million to $19.5 million in annual benefit reductions. Additionally, the amended bill also keeps the rate schedule at table F, rather than moving to table E. The amended bill sufficiently addresses a number of the Chamber's major concerns with the bill as introduced. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber supports this bill as amended.

Position Statement:

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.