119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 4439
The Unemployment Insurance Modernization and Recession Readiness Act, introduced July 16, 2025, comprehensively overhauls the federal unemployment insurance system to provide more generous benefits and broader coverage. The bill raises minimum benefit levels (requiring states to pay at least 26 weeks of benefits and 75% of workers' previous earnings), expands eligibility to include workers who leave jobs for caregiving, medical reasons, safety concerns, or to accompany a spouse's relocation, eliminates waiting periods before first payments, and creates new programs for gig workers, self-employed individuals, and short-time compensation. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new federal "Jobseeker Allowance" program providing weekly payments starting at $250 in 2027 to unemployed or partially employed workers, with enhanced benefits during periods of elevated unemployment, while the federal government fully funds all extended benefits and new programs through general Treasury appropriations. Most provisions take effect January 1, 2027.