Why is Everyone on Unemployment Getting an Additional $600 During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Why is Everyone on Unemployment Getting an Additional $600 During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Published April 4, 2020
We have seen this question asked in several local groups “Why is everyone on unemployment getting an additional $600 during the COVID-19 pandemic even if they didn’t normally make that amount while working?”
It seems that the reason comes down to the antiquated IT systems in many to the unemployment offices across the country.
Below is the answer provided in the FAQ for the Provisions Related to Unemployment Compensation in the Take Responsibility for
Workers and Families Act:
Question: “Why are we providing flat benefits instead of adjusting the benefit to match each individual’s recent
wages?”
Answer: “Many state unemployment offices use antiquated IT systems and are currently understaffed and overwhelmed
with a flood of new claims. Although we provided funding for them to staff up and improve their systems, it
will take them time to hire and train new staff or make structural improvements. Using simplified eligibility
criteria and fixed benefit amounts will make it more feasible for state offices to process and pay claims quickly.”
Under this program, workers with reduced hours would also be eligible for Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation in the amount of $300 or more per week.
Repeat Sex Offender Arrested and Charged with Rape in Calcasieu Parish After Victim Comes Forward to Special Victims Unit Detectives
Vinton, Louisiana - In February 2023, detectives from the Special Victims Unit of the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office received a complaint regarding Paul G. Broussard, a 54-year-old convicted sex offender from Vinton, who was accused of raping a woman. The victim...
I-10 West LA 108 Vinton Exit to Close for Shoulder Reconstruction: Plan Your Detour
Vinton, Louisiana - The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced the closure of the Interstate 10 Westbound on-ramp/auxiliary lane from Exit 8 (LA 108) in Vinton. This closure will be in effect from 6 p.m. on Friday, December 8,...
Moss Bluff Vehicle Burglaries Lead to Arrests of Two From Sulphur: Items Recovered by Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office
Moss Bluff, Louisiana - The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office received a report on December 4th regarding a stolen vehicle at a residence on Gold Finch Way in Moss Bluff. During the initial investigation, it was discovered that a gun, debit card, and various other...