AZ SB1296

Increases active work search requirements from one job contact per day on four days per week to five work search actions per week, including resumes, job applications, job fairs, interviews, or department-approved training programs.

Requires claimants to submit weekly reports to the department detailing work search actions for each week benefits are sought.

Mandates the department cross-check initial and ongoing claims against multiple data sources including the national directory of new hires, incarceration databases, death records, and employment verification services before paying benefits.

Adds requirement for employers to report to the department when individuals refuse to return to work, refuse suitable work offers, fail to appear for scheduled interviews, or fail to respond to employment offers.

Extends disqualification period from receiving benefits after refusing suitable work from the previous standard until the individual earns wages equivalent to eight times their weekly benefit amount.