TN House, Senate approve bill to shorten length of time unemployed Tennesseans can receive jobless benefits

Tennessee lawmakers have approved a bill that cuts more than half the amount of time unemployed residents can receive jobless benefits.

Both the House and Senate passed legislation that will reduce the amount of weeks a person can receive unemployment benefits from 26 to 12 weeks. This is also contingent on the rate of unemployment in Tennessee, as if it is above 5.5%, additional weeks will be added, maxing out at 20 weeks if the rate exceeds 9%. Under the measure, the benefits cap would increase by $50 to $325 per week.

If signed by Gov. Lee, the change will take effect towards the end of 2023.