TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) The Kansas House has approved a bill that could reduce benefits to some unemployed Kansans while cutting unemployment rates paid by new employers.
Under the bill, unemployment benefits would be reduced for a person who receives a lump-sum separation or severance payment. The reduced benefits would continue for the number of weeks that the lump sum represents.
The bill also would reduce the unemployment insurance contribution rates.
The Lawrence Journal World reports supporters tout the bill as a way to create jobs in Kansas. Critics said employers’ contributions rates shouldn’t be cut at a time when the state already is struggling to pay unemployment benefits.
The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.
