DE HB176

Extends appeal and response deadlines from 10 days to 15 calendar days for claimants and employers in unemployment compensation proceedings, including appeals of benefit determinations, overpayment orders, and employer liability decisions.

Clarifies that employers must return completed separation notices within 15 calendar days of the date on the notice, and failure to timely respond bars employers from later claiming the claimant should be disqualified or from seeking relief from benefit wage charges unless good cause is shown.

Adds flexibility for the Department and Unemployment Insurance Appeal Board to deliver notices and documents by email or other methods in addition to mailing, while maintaining that delivery by mail constitutes timely filing.

Confirms that all references to "days" in the unemployment compensation code mean calendar days unless otherwise specified, aligning with Superior Court precedent.

Takes effect October 1, 2023, with the goal of reducing late-filed appeals and missed deadlines while decreasing administrative burden on the Division of Unemployment Insurance.