relative to allowing the ability to work from home to count toward unemployment benefits eligibility.

This bill modifies unemployment benefit rules to allow individuals working from home to remain eligible for benefits, provided they can find suitable work within their residence. Under the new provisions, a person is no longer disqualified for not being available for work outside their home unless there is a reasonable expectation of substantial employment opportunities available inside the home. The commissioner of the Department of Employment Services is tasked with creating specific rules to determine what constitutes a reasonable expectation of such work. This change directly affects unemployed workers who are currently working remotely or seeking remote positions while collecting unemployment insurance. The legislation takes effect immediately upon signing.