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Bill

HD 658

An Act amending the unemployment insurance law for workers with fluctuating work schedules

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Gordon

Massachusetts bill modifies unemployment insurance rules to improve benefit access and calculation for workers with seasonal or fluctuating work schedules.

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Bill Summary · HD 658

Legislative bill overview

HD 658 amends Massachusetts unemployment insurance law to better accommodate workers with fluctuating or seasonal work schedules. The bill modifies how unemployment benefits are calculated and eligibility is determined for workers whose income varies significantly week-to-week rather than following traditional full-time employment patterns.

Why is this important

Gig economy and seasonal workers often fall through cracks in traditional unemployment systems designed for steady employment. This change could provide more reliable safety nets for workers in industries like hospitality, agriculture, construction, and the growing contract workforce.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to employers: Modified benefit calculations could increase unemployment insurance tax burden on businesses with seasonal or rotating workforces
  • Definitional challenges: Determining what qualifies as "fluctuating" versus merely part-time work may create disputes and administrative complexity
  • Fairness concerns: Some may argue benefits should not be substantially easier to obtain for workers with variable schedules versus those in unstable full-time positions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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