SB 445 Summary

• Amends unemployment benefits eligibility requirements under the Michigan Employment Security Act to clarify work search and reporting obligations for claimants.

• Expands acceptable methods for demonstrating active work search to include using Michigan Works Agency resources, attending job search seminars, creating professional networking profiles, applying for positions, registering with employment agencies, and taking civil service exams.

• Requires claimants to report work search details at least once every 2 weeks (effective April 2, 2020) rather than monthly, with the unemployment agency able to prescribe shorter reporting periods.

• Allows unemployment agency to waive work registration, reporting, and availability requirements for laid-off workers if employer notifies agency of temporary layoff within 45 days (extendable to 90 additional days for retooling, parts shortages, or production adjustments).

• Took effect immediately upon governor's approval on February 25, 2022.