The Economic Times

Unemployment benefits set to change under new bill what millions of Americans need to know

More than 30 million workers live in states that offer fewer than 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. A new Senate bill could change that fast. The Unemployment Insurance Modernization and Recession Readiness Act would set a 26-week federal minimum for unemployment insurance nationwide. States like Florida and Georgia now cap benefits at 12 to 14 weeks. Lawmakers say longer unemployment benefits would protect families during layoffs and economic downturns. The bill keeps eligibility rules but extends benefit duration significantly.