While the statewide labor shortage is a complex and multi-faceted topic, some Wisconsin legislators have attributed the issue primarily to unemployment eligibility and related benefits. Accordingly, legislation has been introduced that would, for example, limit food stamp eligibility, prohibit automatic Medicaid renewal and strip Medicaid benefits for certain individuals, implement audits pertaining to work search actions and fraud investigations, potentially reduce the duration of the claimant benefit period (as it relates to the current unemployment rate), and deny benefits for claimants who decline or do not attend a job interview.
Business Takeaway: While this is an attempt by some legislators to address the labor shortage, it is unlikely to survive the governor’s veto. Stay tuned.