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HB 376

Reduce the maximum weeks an individual may receive unemployment

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sarah Fowler Arthur and 12 co-sponsors

Ohio bill HB 376 reduces maximum unemployment benefit duration for recipients, lowering state costs but potentially increasing worker financial hardship during job searches.

Referred to committee
#employment #unemployment
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Bill Summary · HB 376

Legislative bill overview

HB 376 proposes to reduce the maximum duration of unemployment benefits that individual recipients can receive in Ohio. The bill was introduced in June 2025 and is currently under committee review. The specific reduction amount is not detailed in the available legislative history.

Why is this important

Unemployment benefits provide crucial income support for workers between jobs, affecting both individual financial security and broader economic demand. Changes to benefit duration directly impact how long displaced workers can maintain household expenses while job searching, with potential effects on consumer spending, poverty rates, and labor market participation. This represents a significant policy shift in Ohio's social safety net.

Potential points of contention

  • Worker financial hardship: Shorter benefit periods may force workers to accept lower-wage jobs prematurely or deplete savings faster, particularly affecting older workers and those in depressed labor markets with longer job searches
  • Cost-benefit trade-offs: Proponents argue reduced benefits lower state unemployment insurance costs and encourage faster return to work; critics counter that inadequate support increases reliance on other social programs and reduces economic stimulus from unemployment spending
  • Labor market conditions: The bill lacks provisions accounting for regional unemployment rates or economic downturns, potentially creating hardship during recessions when job availability is limited

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

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