IN SB0214

Adds new statutory definitions to Indiana's unemployment insurance code, including terms for "American vessel," "approved training," "employee," "full time," "governmental entity," "instructional," "instrumentality," "political subdivision," "research," and "vessel," effective July 1, 2026.

Establishes detailed rules for determining wages subject to employer contributions, including treatment of meals/lodging, termination allowances, back pay awards, commissions, corporate officer compensation, tips/gratuities, and travel expense reimbursements.

Codifies employment determination criteria clarifying when services constitute covered employment, including rules for trustees, caddies, family business employees, religious organization workers, domestic service workers, agricultural laborers, and product demonstrators.

Strengthens unemployment benefits claims procedures by requiring claimants to register with Indiana Career Connect within 10 days of filing, complete at least two weekly work search activities, maintain detailed records of job search efforts for six months, and respond to all department inquiries.

Expands procedural requirements for administrative hearings on unemployment claims, including rules for subpoenas, continuances, evidence submission, telephone hearings, and establishes that Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure and Evidence apply where the unemployment insurance code is silent.