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Bill

Bill

HB 1843

Concerning students' eligibility to receive unemployment insurance benefits.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 8 co-sponsors

Washington HB 1843 expands unemployment insurance eligibility to allow qualifying students to receive benefits when experiencing job loss or reduced work hours.

Referred to Rules 2 Review.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1843

Legislative bill overview

HB 1843 modifies Washington state's unemployment insurance eligibility rules to allow students to qualify for benefits under certain circumstances. The bill addresses a current policy gap where students are often categorized as ineligible for unemployment insurance even when they meet other statutory requirements. This change would expand access to unemployment protections for a population that may experience job loss or reduced hours while pursuing education.

Why is this important

Unemployment insurance is designed as a safety net for workers experiencing involuntary job loss, but current rules may exclude students regardless of their actual work status or financial need. Expanding eligibility could provide crucial financial support to working students who face economic hardship. Conversely, this impacts employer payroll taxes and the unemployment insurance fund's solvency, with potential ripple effects on benefit availability or contribution rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: The bill's specific eligibility thresholds for "students" remain unclear from the title alone—whether part-time vs. full-time enrollment, course load requirements, or income thresholds apply will significantly affect scope and cost
  • Program cost and sustainability: Expanding the beneficiary pool increases unemployment insurance fund obligations, potentially requiring higher employer contributions or reduced benefits for non-student workers
  • Work-study vs. traditional employment: Ambiguity about whether student work-study positions, internships, or on-campus employment are treated the same as regular employment could create administrative complexity

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

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