Legislation heard this week would ensure students would be allowed to receive unemployment benefits. High school students and those just entering college offered testimony making the point that through their work they pay into the Unemployment Trust Fund, but are currently unable to collect traditional unemployment benefits. This has been a major issue for the many students who have been unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many families rely on young adults to help pay bills, especially during difficult economic times. Additionally, with the high price of higher education, many young adults counted on their wages to pay for those costs. This is a critical need that should be addressed to help working Minnesotans and their families.
This proposal was laid over for future consideration. (S.F. 1044)