An Act to increase unemployment insurance benefits for low wage workers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral and 7 co-sponsors

Bill H 2150 boosts unemployment benefits for low wage workers in Massachusetts, ensuring they receive fairer support during job loss to enhance economic security.

Hearing scheduled for 11/17/2025 from 11:00 AM-12:20 PM in B-1

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 2150 aims to enhance unemployment insurance benefits specifically for low wage workers in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to provide greater financial support to individuals who find themselves unemployed, thereby addressing economic disparities and improving the safety net for vulnerable workers.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant amendments to Chapter 151A of the General Laws, which governs unemployment insurance in Massachusetts:

Adjustment of Benefit Calculations:

Section 1: Changes the calculation of maximum unemployment benefits from "thirty times the weekly benefit rate" to "fifteen times the individual’s average weekly wage" during the base period. This adjustment aims to ensure that benefits are more reflective of the individual's earnings.
Eligibility Criteria: Individuals must have earned at least thirteen times their average weekly wage in the base period to qualify for benefits, with specific provisions for those who may be rendered ineligible.

Weekly Benefit Amount:

Section 2: Establishes that eligible individuals will receive benefits equal to fifty percent of their average weekly wage, with a cap set at fifty-seven and one-half percent of the average weekly wage of all employees covered by the chapter. The minimum benefit is set at twenty percent of the average weekly wage or seventy-five percent of the individual’s average weekly wage, whichever is less.

Total Benefits Cap:

Section 3: Defines the total benefits an unemployed individual can receive during a benefit year as the lesser of sixty percent of their base period wages or thirty times their weekly benefit rate. This section also introduces a provision that could reduce the benefits cap to twenty-six times the weekly benefit rate under certain economic conditions.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Low Wage Workers: Individuals earning lower incomes who rely on unemployment benefits during periods of job loss.
- Employers: Changes in the unemployment insurance system may impact employer contributions and responsibilities.
- State Agencies: The Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development agency will need to implement and manage the revised benefit calculations and eligibility criteria.

Procedural Aspects

Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing for Bill H 2150 is scheduled for November 17, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:20 PM in room B-1. This hearing will provide an opportunity for stakeholders and the public to express their views on the proposed legislation.

Legislative Timeline: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the committee on Labor and Workforce Development. It has garnered support from multiple cosponsors, indicating a collaborative effort to advance this legislation.

Conclusion

Bill H 2150 represents a significant step towards improving unemployment insurance benefits for low wage workers in Massachusetts. By adjusting benefit calculations and eligibility criteria, the bill aims to provide more equitable support for those facing unemployment, ultimately contributing to a more robust safety net for vulnerable populations.

Bill