MI SB0501

Changes weekly benefit rate calculation for benefit years beginning January 15, 2012 or later from 4.1% formula to 47% of prior average weekly wage, plus $6.00 per dependent (up to 5), with maximum weekly benefit rate of $362.00.

Reduces maximum weeks of unemployment benefits payable from 26 weeks to 20 weeks for individuals filing initial claims on or after January 15, 2012, while maintaining minimum of 14 weeks.

Modifies definition of "seasonal employment" to exclude construction industry employers and establish two conditions for seasonal status based on employment duration or peak employment periods not exceeding 26 weeks.

Clarifies that seasonal employer designation under the act need not correspond to categories under the North American Classification System.

Maintains existing dependent allowances, reduction provisions for earned income, and training benefit provisions while applying new benefit rate and duration calculations to specified benefit years.