MS HB109

Creates the "Self-Employment Assistance Program Act" to provide weekly allowances to unemployed individuals who participate in entrepreneurial training, business counseling, and self-employment activities instead of seeking traditional employment.

Weekly allowance equals the regular unemployment benefit amount, with total benefits in a benefit year not exceeding the maximum amount under existing law; allowances are paid from the unemployment fund on the same schedule as regular benefits.

Limits program participation to no more than 5% of individuals receiving regular unemployment benefits at any time.

Exempts self-employment assistance participants from work availability and job search requirements, and excludes self-employment income from earnings calculations that would normally reduce benefits.

Establishes a nine-member Self-Employment Assistance Program Steering Committee with representatives from business, economic development, and small business organizations to adopt initial program rules that the Mississippi Department of Employment Security will enforce; program effective July 1, 2013.