IL HB2082

Creates a shared work benefits program under the Unemployment Insurance Act allowing employees to receive benefits when employers reduce their hours or days of work as part of a workforce stabilization plan affecting at least 10% of the regular permanent workforce.

Calculates weekly shared work benefits as 50% of the percentage of wage reduction (rounded to nearest 10%, minimum 10% reduction required) multiplied by the lesser of the employee's current full-time weekly wage or the statewide average weekly wage.

Limits benefits to a maximum of 20 weeks during any 52 consecutive weeks and prohibits employees from claiming other unemployment insurance benefits for the same weeks; employees must not register for work or actively seek work to receive these benefits.

Requires employers to submit biweekly certifications and payments to a newly created Shared Work Benefits Fund, which is separate from general funds and used solely for shared work benefit payments; employees and their bargaining agents must voluntarily agree in writing to participate.

Takes effect July 1, 2011; the program terminates if General Assembly appropriations for administration are insufficient, as determined by the Director of Employment Security.