Unemployment Benefits Relaxed by Governor Evers

Today Governor Evers announced the release of Emergency Order #7 which waives the 4-week enforced search for jobs before becoming eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. People are already being thrown out of work in this crisis, and with the recent mandatory shutdown of many businesses, this will escalate rapidly. Restaurant and bar workers are being furloughed at many businesses and the effects of those layoffs will ripple through the state. This order is retroactive to March 12. 

“This emergency order follows the federal guidance related to administering unemployment insurance benefit claims during the pandemic period and allows the program to support our workers who have been affected,” said Gov. Evers. “Many Wisconsin workers are facing financial burden and stress due to the COVID-19 outbreak and this order will help them access some additional support. My Administration plans to continue to work with state legislators and our federal partners on initiatives to help impacted workers.”