By Gina Jordan
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-956739.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – The Florida House is set for a final vote on a proposal that would reduce benefits for out of work Floridians. Gina Jordan reports.
The measure would lower the unemployment compensation taxes paid by businesses, and put a cap on the number of weeks benefits are paid using a sliding scale. Republican Doug Holder of Sarasota is a sponsor.
"Under the bill, if the unemployment rate is 9% or higher, the maximum number of weeks is twenty. If the unemployment rate is at or below 5%, the number of weeks is twelve."
Jobless applicants would be required to undergo a skills review to qualify for benefits. The maximum weekly check is unchanged at $275. Holder says this is a re-employment bill. It's expected to win easy passage in the Republican-controlled House on Thursday.