HUMPS Act of 2025

Overview: HR 3379, the HUMPS Act of 2025, was reported (amended) by the Committee on Financial Services. It was introduced on May 14, 2025.

Purpose and Intent: The HUMPS Act aims to address the growing issue of "hidden unemployment" by providing financial assistance and job training programs for individuals who have become discouraged from actively seeking employment.

Key Provisions:
- Establishes the "Hidden Unemployment Mitigation and Placement Support" (HUMPS) program to offer:
- Monthly cash assistance payments to eligible individuals
- Job search assistance, career counseling, and skills training
- Subsidies for employers who hire individuals from the HUMPS program
- Requires the Department of Labor to develop a standardized methodology for measuring and tracking "hidden unemployment" rates

Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Individuals who have stopped actively seeking employment due to discouragement or other factors
- Employers who may benefit from hiring subsidies and access to a new pool of skilled workers
- The Department of Labor, which will be tasked with implementing the HUMPS program and tracking hidden unemployment

Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill has been reported (amended) by the Committee on Financial Services and is awaiting further action in the legislative process.