MS HB1405

Replaces Mississippi's current fixed 26-week maximum unemployment benefit duration with a sliding scale tied to the statewide unemployment rate, effective July 1, 2026

When unemployment is 5% or below, claimants receive a maximum of 12 weeks of benefits; 5-7% unemployment provides 16 weeks; 7-10% provides 20 weeks; above 10% provides the full 26 weeks

Benefit duration is calculated using the average seasonally adjusted state unemployment rate for the three months preceding the month a claimant files their initial claim

The Mississippi Department of Employment Security must publish the applicable unemployment rate and maximum weekly benefits available on its website each month

An individual's maximum benefit amount is locked in at the start of their benefit year and remains unchanged throughout that year regardless of subsequent rate fluctuations