AR SB593

Minimum weekly unemployment benefit set at $81.00; maximum weekly benefit set at $451.00

Maximum potential benefits reduced from 26 weeks to 25 weeks times the weekly benefit amount for all claimants

Qualifying wage requirements increased from 27 times to 35 times the weekly benefit amount; requalifying wages increased from 3 to 8 times the weekly benefit amount

Discharge for absenteeism disqualifies claimants if discharge follows a written attendance policy with progressive warnings, with disqualification continuing until 30 days of subsequent employment

Failure to accept suitable work disqualified for 30 days of employment, with job offers deemed unsuitable if below 80% of prior wages for first 12 weeks, below 50% for weeks 12-18, and below benefit amount after 18 weeks