Latest news with #UnemploymentCompensation
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
L&I assists thousands with unemployment compensation claims
Jun. 1—WILKES-BARRE — Now in its third year, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry's (L&I) UC Connect program continues to provide essential, in-person assistance to Pennsylvanians looking for help navigating the Unemployment Compensation (UC) system. Since its launch in May 2022, UC Connect has helped more than 106,000 Pennsylvanians resolve claims, navigate eligibility issues, and connect to community-based resources, helping more than 700 people in April 2025 alone. Offered at PA CareerLink locations statewide, UC Connect appointments are tailored to claimants who lack reliable internet, are unfamiliar with digital systems, or need language support. With sustained demand for in-person help, L&I has embedded UC Connect into its long-term customer service model. "As UC Connect enters its third year, it remains a necessary and effective tool for delivering unemployment services equitably," said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. "In-person support ensures that no Pennsylvanian is left out of the system simply because they don't have access to broadband or need help understanding the process. L&I has expanded UC Connect's services and took the initiative statewide, and it's clear that our efforts are making a difference in delivering faster, better service for Pennsylvanians." After initially launched as a pilot program in 2022, UC Connect was made a permanent service through bipartisan investments in the 2023 — 24 budget, enabling L&I to hire more than 380 UC interviewers to expand service delivery across Pennsylvania. Unemployment Compensation system update The Department first eliminated a backlog of 40,000 claims from the pandemic era — each requiring case-by-case review — within seven months. The Department then shifted focus to scaling up staff, reducing wait times, and improving access for all Pennsylvanians. Key service highlights from April 2025 include: —Average call wait time was reduced to 18 minutes and 56 seconds. —5,321 live chat sessions were completed—an increase from the same time last year —44,077 new UC claims were filed —$157 million in UC benefits was paid to 99,518 individuals —86,616 helpline calls were answered —13,965 email inquiries were processed —709 individuals received in-person assistance through UC Connect Since the beginning of 2025, L&I has paid out $784 million in UC benefits to more than 483,000 individuals, responded to 361,258 helpline calls, and provided 3,112 UC Connect appointments. Risk-limiting audit of 2025 primary election begins The Department of State this week began Pennsylvania's statewide risk-limiting election audit (RLA) of the May 20 primary. "This is our sixth statewide risk-limiting audit since the 2022 general election," Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt said. "RLAs are proven to be the highest standard of comprehensive election audits because the RLA process provides a statistically sound, scientific method for confirming, with a high degree of confidence, that the reported outcome of the audited election is accurate." Schmidt said 10 Department employees took turns rolling 10-sided dice to deliver the random 20-digit "seed number," which is used to determine which batches of ballots counties will audit over the next several days. A random-selection drawing on May 23, resulted in the selection of the contest for the Republican nomination for Judge of Commonwealth Court for this RLA. During the audit, county officials will hand-tally the randomly selected ballot batches, then compare those vote counts to the original machine counts for the selected race. Known as a "batch comparison" type of RLA, this pre-certification audit can confirm whether counties accurately tabulated paper ballots so that a full hand count would produce the same reported outcome. The RLA will be carried out in addition to the 2% statutorily required review that counties must perform after each primary and general election in Pennsylvania. For that review, county officials are required to conduct a statistical recount of a random sample of at least 2% of all ballots cast, or 2,000 ballots, whichever is fewer. Counties must complete the RLA by June 5, and they must certify all election results to Schmidt by June 9. Fetterman joins push to return stolen art to Holocaust survivors U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Braddock, is pushing legislation to help survivors of the Holocaust and their families reclaim tens of thousands of pieces of artwork stripped from them by the Nazis. The bill, sponsored by Fetterman and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, attempts to smooth the legal process for these survivors or their heirs as they petition the courts for return of the art, according to a news release. Though Congress passed a bill with the same aim nearly a decade ago, some museums, institutions and governments have stonewalled and battled families in their reclamation efforts, Fetterman's office said. "Some 80 years after the Holocaust, we have a moral responsibility to do right by the victims of these atrocities and their families," Fetterman said in a statement. The proposal extends the original Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act, which is set to expire at the end of 2026. Recognizing the difficulty of tracking down artwork stolen during the Holocaust, Congress in 2016 passed the act to give families six years to file a legal claim for a piece after they've located it. The new bill backed by Fetterman also seeks to make sure families' court claims get fair consideration on their merits rather than being dismissed over technicalities, the release stated. During the Holocaust, Nazi Germany seized hundreds of thousands of pieces of artwork from Jewish people. While the U.S. and other allied nations have tried to restore these valuables to their rightful owners, more than 100,000 pieces still have not been given back, according to Fetterman's office. Fetterman is co-sponsoring the bill introduced by U.S. Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut. DCNR: Free menstrual products available in 68 state parks Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn this week was joined by First Lady Lori Shapiro and members of the Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement to announce a new initiative that makes free menstrual products available in 68 state parks across Pennsylvania. The products are now stocked in park offices, visitor centers, and environmental educational centers at participating parks, offering a convenient and essential resource for visitors. Signage in English and Spanish helps park-goers locate where products are available. This effort is part of the Shapiro Administration's broader work to make public spaces across the Commonwealth more accessible and supportive for all. The announcement coincides with Menstrual Hygiene Day — highlighting the importance of addressing period poverty through public policy and access. "I've been so inspired by all the young women I've met who are making their voices heard and starting conversations on period poverty — talking so comfortably about something that, for so long, has been a taboo subject," said First Lady Shapiro. "Thanks to them speaking up, Pennsylvania has taken some major steps to ensure more women have access to basic hygiene supplies throughout the day. I want everyone to be able to enjoy their time outdoors, and DCNR's work to get free menstrual products in the bathrooms and visitor offices of our state parks is critical to making our outdoor spaces welcoming to everyone." "No one should have to cut an outdoor adventure short because of their period — DCNR has you covered," said Secretary Dunn. "We are committed to creating inclusive, welcoming outdoor spaces — and that means meeting people's basic needs without stigma or barriers." DCNR will evaluate the program's success and expand it to additional park locations in the future. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Jordan News
20-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Jordan's Social Security Corporation Clarifies Unemployment Benefit Eligibility and Mechanism - Jordan News
In a recent press statement, the Social Security Corporation (SSC) of Jordan outlined the eligibility criteria and procedures for receiving unemployment benefits, known as Badal Al-Taattul An Al-Amal (Unemployment Compensation). اضافة اعلان Key Eligibility Requirements: The insured person must have at least 36 monthly contributions to the SSC before the entitlement date, including at least one contribution to unemployment insurance while working in the private sector. The individual must not be over 60 years old (men) or 55 years old (women). The person must be unemployed at the time of application and throughout each month for which the benefit is claimed. Payment Details: Benefits start from the beginning of the month following the application date. No payment is made for the month in which employment ends. Duration and Amount: If the person has less than 180 contributions: Benefit is paid for up to 3 months: 75% of the last insured wage in the first month 65% in the second month 55% in the third month If the person has 180 contributions or more: Benefit is paid for up to 6 months: 75% in the first month 65% in the second month 55% in the third month 45% in the fourth, fifth, and sixth months Application Process: Applicants must: Log in to their personal account on the SSC website or mobile app. Select the 'Unemployment Compensation Request' service. Fill out the required data and submit the application electronically. Important Notes: A person can benefit from this allowance a maximum of 3 times during their insurance period. For each new claim, a minimum of 36 new contributions must be made prior to eligibility. The insured person remains covered under SSC protection during the benefit period, which counts as active service time. Purpose of the Program: This insurance aims to provide a temporary income to maintain the individual's spending ability during unemployment, support their job search, and ensure the continuity of their social protection under the SSC system.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rite Aid layoffs: State to host online meeting to support affected employees
May 12—WILKES-BARRE — On Wednesday , May 14 , the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) will host a virtual Rapid Response Information Meeting (RRIM) for employees affected by the recently announced Rite Aid layoffs which affected hundreds of workers in Pennsylvania. The session will provide important information to help impacted workers during this career transition, like PA CareerLink services, Unemployment Compensation guidance, health insurance enrollment and additional local and state resources. The meeting will take place online from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and registration is required. Impacted workers can sign up online. "Suddenly losing employment and having to determine your next move can feel overwhelming and intimidating," said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. "But L&I is here to help during this challenging time. Our Rapid Response team is working to ensure those impacted by Rite Aid's layoffs have access to the resources and support they need to help them transition to meaningful employment opportunities that offer family-sustaining wages." L&I encourages workers to reach out to their local PA CareerLink for more information and services. Topper: Flawed process created flawed legal marijuana bill Pennsylvania House Republican Leader Jesse Topper, R-Bedford/Fulton, this week said the flawed process leading to House Bill 1200 — legislation legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Pennsylvania — resulted in a flawed bill that demanded opposition. The legislation passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Wednesday on a party-line vote of 102-101. "The bill to legalize marijuana in Pennsylvania was introduced at the end of the day Sunday and then rushed through a committee vote on Monday afternoon — a move that stifled debate and potential amendments," Topper said. "That flawed process led to a seriously flawed piece of legislation that creates an unnecessary government monopoly over the sale of marijuana, contains significant constitutional concerns, and fails to deliver on promised state revenue by cannibalizing the sales of legalized marijuana into new programs and state giveaways." Topper said House Bill 1200 massively expands government by creating a government monopoly over the sale of marijuana by vesting sale and regulatory authority with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, which estimated $260 million in costs to ramp up sales of marijuana. In addition, during the amendment process, Democrats unanimously rejected a Republican proposal that would have allowed municipalities to opt-out of having marijuana sales take place within their borders. "If Democrats were serious about getting this legislation done, the process they used would have reflected that," Rep. Topper said. "Unfortunately, this product was too rushed, too deeply flawed, and too far-ranging to garner any support from the House Republican Caucus." House Bill 1200 now heads to the Pennsylvania Senate. Structured literacy, PASS scholarship bills advanced The Senate Education Committee, chaired by Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver, R-Northumberland, this week advanced legislation to implement evidence-based reading instruction and establish the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS) Scholarship Program — both of which aim to provide students with resources for learning and advancing in and out of the classroom. "Structured literacy is a top priority for me as Chair of the Education Committee, as we have students in all grades that are not able to read at grade level," Culver said. "Methods used in recent years for teaching letters, words, and reading comprehension are doing a disservice to an entire generation, and research backs the need for change." —Senate Bill 700 — requires schools to implement evidence-based reading instruction, conduct reading screenings for K — 3 students and provides grant funding to support literacy development. "Under-performing schools are also doing our students a disservice," Culver said. "PASS Scholarships allow parents and students to determine the best learning environment for them." —Senate Bill 10 — uses state testing performance metrics to identify the bottom 15% of schools, in order for parents to qualify for PASS scholarships that could be used to attend an alternative school. The committee also approved the following additional legislation: —Senate Bill 114 — expands the availability of long-term care training programs and nurse aide certification opportunities to address workforce shortages. —Senate Bill 127 — requires schools to provide instruction on the Holocaust, genocide and human rights violations, and post related resources online. —Senate Bill 227 — applies the Right-to-Know Law to the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, increasing transparency in school governance. Senate Bill 246 — requires notification to parents and school staff when a weapon is found on school property to promote communication and safety. Senate Bill 310 — establishes a requirement for students to complete the FAFSA or an opt-out form as a condition for public high school graduation, supporting college and career readiness. For information, visit Pugh to hold concealed carry event Rep. Brenda Pugh, R-Dallas Township, this week announced she will host a Concealed Carry Seminar on Thursday , May 15 . The event will be held at the Luzerne Volunteer Fire Department, 66 Tener St., Luzerne, from 6 to 8 p.m. "Many people have questions about Pennsylvania's concealed carry laws and the Castle Doctrine," Pugh said. "I'm hopeful this event will help provide answers and clarity about firearm owner rights." The seminar, led by Sam Sanguedolce, Luzerne County district attorney, will provide information on state laws and a time to ask questions. No concealed carry permits will be offered. Reservations are required by calling 570-283-1001 or visiting Walsh to host seminar on financial exploitation of seniors Rep. Jamie Walsh, R-Ross Township, invites residents of the 117th District to a free seminar on the financial exploitation of seniors at noon Friday, May 16, at the Meadows Manor Community Room, 200 Lake St., Dallas. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m., with a complimentary lunch provided at 11:30 a.m. David Shallcross, director of senior protection at the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, will lead a presentation on spotting and preventing financial exploitation among older adults. "Fraudsters and scammers are constantly changing their tactics to prey upon unsuspecting victims," Walsh said. "Awareness is our best defense against financial exploitation. I am happy to offer this free seminar to help my constituents learn the red flags and protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to financial fraud schemes." Registration is required. Call Walsh's Dallas office at 570-675-6000 for information or to reserve a seat. House approves bill to increase pension payments for disabled veterans The state House of Representatives has approved legislation that would increase pension payments for veterans who are blind and for veterans who have lost limbs or are paralyzed due to their military service, according to Rep. Dane Watro, R-Hazleton, one of the bill's prime sponsors. "It's been 26 years since these pension payments made by our Commonwealth were adjusted, and it's long past due we make this change to support our disabled veterans," Watro said. House Bill 1144 seeks to raise the pension amount from $150 per month to $200 per month for both the Blind Veterans Pension Program and the Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program offered through the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "This $50 increase per month is the first step in right-sizing these programs for the deserving veterans who have served and sacrificed for our country," Watro said. "I hope the Senate acts quickly on this important legislation." Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
PA Department of Labor to hold meeting to help Rite Aid employees
PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — Following the announcement that Rite Aid will be closing or selling stores across Pennsylvania, the Department of Labor is stepping up to hold a meeting to help those affected. They'll be holding a Rapid Response Information Meeting (RRIM) for hundreds of workers in both central and southeastern Pennsylvania. The session will provide important information to help impacted workers during this career transition, like PA CareerLink services, Unemployment Compensation (UC) guidance, health insurance enrollment, and additional local and state resources. The meeting will take place online on Wednesday, May 14 , from 1 to 2:00 pm , and registration is required. You can sign up online. Rite Aid to sell or close all stores in Central Pennsylvania The following 21 stores in Central Pennsylvania are up for sale: Altoona – East Pleasant Valley Boulevard; Pleasant Valley Boulevard; Chestnut Avenue. Cresson – Second Street. DuBois – Commons Drive. Ebensburg – Admiral Peary Highway. Everett – East Main Street. Emporium – East Allegheny Street. Hollidaysburg – Blair Street. Johnstown – Scalp Avenue; Goucher Street; Bedford Street; Central Avenue. Mt. Union – East Shirley Street. Nanty Glo – Shoemaker Street. Portage – Main Street. Punxsutawney – West Mahoning Street. Ridgway – Main Street. Roaring Spring – June Drive. Saint Marys – South St. Marys Street. Tyrone – Logan Avenue. Stores that do not sell will end up closing. 'Suddenly losing employment and having to determine your next move can feel overwhelming and intimidating. But L&I is here to help during this challenging time,' L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker said. 'Our Rapid Response team is working to ensure those impacted by Rite Aid's layoffs have access to the resources and support they need to help them transition to meaningful employment opportunities that offer family-sustaining wages.' Future meetings for impacted Rite Aid workers are currently being organized. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
