HB 1911 Summary

• Requires unemployment benefit claimants to affirmatively certify that all claim information is true and correct, and to acknowledge awareness of the definition of misconduct under the law.

• Modifies discharge for misconduct provisions by placing burden of proof on employers to demonstrate misconduct through signed affidavits or other evidence, with burden then shifting to employees to prove facts are inaccurate or do not constitute misconduct.

• Defines "misconduct" to include nine specific categories: unexplained absenteeism/tardiness, willful indifference to duties, breach of employer duties, mismanagement of position, actions endangering health/life/property, dishonesty, wrongdoing, violation of law, or violation of workplace policies.

• Establishes that employees discharged for refusal to take or positive results from drug/alcohol testing are disqualified for benefits, and places burden on claimants to prove tests were improperly conducted; requires employers to provide chain of custody documentation.

• Adds provisions requiring immediate cessation of benefits upon employer evidence of rejected suitable work offer, with Commission verification required, and clarifies disqualification periods end only after reemployment and earnings equal to ten times the weekly benefit amount.

• Effective November 1, 2013.