People who are out of work may soon get more unemployment benefits.
The Michigan Senate this week approved a bill that would increase benefits from 20 to 26 weeks and increase the weekly pay from $362 to $614 over the next four years, or by $84 each year.
Steve Claywell from Michigan Building Trades told lawmakers during a committee hearing that unemployed workers need help.
“Not only are we the only state that does not have 26 weeks, but we have the lowest benefit,” Claywell said. “Where does the retain and attract employees come in? The greatest investment we can make is in our people.”
State Senator Darren Camilleri from Trenton voiced his support while questioning Amanda Fisher, the state director of the National Federation of Independent Business. Camilleri said having expanded unemployment would benefit the economy.
“But you’re also taking from the economy when you do it. And so it’s — sometimes that’s robbing Peter to pay Paul,” Fisher said.
The bill will be sent to the State House for consideration.
