To prohibit any entity that receives Federal funds from the COVID relief packages from mandating employees receive a COVID-19 vaccine, and for other purposes.
Impact
The bill also introduces a mechanism for reporting noncompliance where potential employers can inform state authorities about the failure of claimants to fulfill the new requirements. Additionally, the legislation calls for increased random audits under the Beneficiary Accuracy Management program to assess if enhanced auditing improves the management of state unemployment compensation laws. These changes are intended to increase accountability among unemployment beneficiaries and improve the integrity of unemployment systems across states.
Summary
House Bill 1119, titled the 'Unemployment Integrity Act of 2025', proposes amendments to titles III and IX of the Social Security Act to impose stricter eligibility requirements for individuals receiving unemployment compensation. Under this act, claimants must actively engage with available work opportunities, including scheduling interviews, attending reemployment services, and even complying with requests for drug testing or skill assessments. These requirements aim to ensure that individuals receiving unemployment benefits are making genuine efforts to secure suitable work, thereby promoting reintegration into the workforce.
Contention
Notably, the proposal raises questions about fairness and the administrative burden it places on both claimants and state agencies. Critics may argue that imposing such stringent work requirements could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who may face barriers to employment. The requirement for compliance with additional tests and assessments could potentially deter individuals from seeking unemployment benefits during difficult economic times, leading to debates around the balance between ensuring personal responsibility and providing adequate support during periods of unemployment.
To prohibit any entity that receives Federal funds from the COVID relief packages from mandating employees receive a COVID-19 vaccine, and for other purposes.
This bill prohibits any entity that receives specified COVID-19 relief funds from mandating COVID-19 vaccines for its employees. An entity that violates this prohibition must return the funding it received.
Employment security: administration; assessment of penalties, interest, or fees on certain unpaid restitution of benefit overpayments; prohibit. Amends sec. 15 of 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.15).
Employment security: administration; plain language; require the unemployment agency to use in communications and determinations. Amends sec. 2 & 32b of 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1 (MCL 421.2 & 421.32b) & adds sec. 32e.