MS SB2678

Ties unemployment benefit duration to regional unemployment rates, replacing the current flat 26-week maximum with a sliding scale of 12 to 26 weeks based on local economic conditions

Provides 12 weeks of benefits when regional unemployment is 5% or less, 16 weeks when between 5-7%, 20 weeks when between 7-10%, and 26 weeks when above 10%

Requires the Mississippi Department of Employment Security to publish monthly the average regional unemployment rate and corresponding benefit duration for new claimants

Maintains existing weekly benefit amount calculations with a maximum of $235 and minimum of $30 per week

Takes effect July 1, 2026, with an immediate repeal date of June 30, 2026 (likely a drafting error creating a null effective period)