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# Summary The Unemployment Insurance Modernization and Recession Readiness Act modernizes the nation's unemployment benefits system through comprehensive changes to extended benefits, regular unemployment compensation, and the creation of new support programs. The bill, introduced in October 2023, would increase federal funding for extended unemployment benefits during recessions, expand eligibility for regular unemployment benefits, and create two new payment programs for job seekers. The extended benefits provisions increase federal funding to 100 percent of payments, lower unemployment triggers to 5.5 percent (making benefits available more easily), and create tiered benefit increases during high unemployment periods, with extended benefits lasting up to 52 weeks at the highest unemployment tier. For regular unemployment benefits, the bill establishes minimums requiring states to provide at least 26 weeks of benefits, ensure weekly payments equal at least 75 percent of previous wages (up to a cap), and set maximum weekly benefits at two-thirds of average state wages. The bill also expands eligibility by allowing part-time workers to claim benefits, broadening reasons for "good cause" job separation to include caregiving and unsafe conditions, and extending benefits to workers affected by sexual harassment or domestic violence. New provisions eliminate waiting weeks before first benefit payments, allow benefits for temporary workers at assignment end, and require states to offer self-employment assistance and short-time compensation programs. The bill creates a "jobseeker allowance" providing $250 weekly (indexed for inflation) to unemployed individuals age 19 or older meeting work-search requirements, with account balances extending up to 52 weeks during severe recessions. It also adds a $25 weekly dependent allowance and emergency enhanced unemployment compensation during public health emergencies or major disasters. Most provisions take effect January 1, 2025, though states can implement earlier with regulatory changes. The federal government funds these expansions through direct appropriations and 100 percent reimbursement to states, with specific sections exempt from federal budget sequestration cuts.

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