MI HB5493

Creates a new exception to employment disqualification rules allowing individuals who leave work due to domestic violence to remain eligible for unemployment benefits, with benefits charged to the nonchargeable benefits account rather than the employer's account.

Defines "domestic violence" to include causing or attempting to cause physical or mental harm to a family or household member, placing them in fear of harm, involuntary sexual activity by force or threat, or terrorizing/harassing behavior.

Permits individuals to demonstrate domestic violence through restraining orders, police records, medical documentation, conviction records of the perpetrator, or statements from counselors, social workers, clergy, shelter workers, attorneys, or other professionals.

Specifies qualifying reasons for leaving employment due to domestic violence include reasonable fear of future violence at work, need to relocate, addressing physical/psychological/legal effects of violence, leaving employment as a condition of receiving domestic violence services, or belief that termination is necessary for safety.

Requires the unemployment agency to maintain confidentiality and not disclose evidence of domestic violence experienced by claimants; takes effect 90 days after enactment.