Lehigh Times

Legislation sponsored by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie has advanced to the full House for consideration after being unanimously approved by the House Labor and Industry Committee. The bill aims to assist victims of domestic violence in Pennsylvania when applying for unemployment compensation (UC) benefits.

"Although UC claims submitted by domestic violence victims are not the most common or numerous, I believe these individuals are the most in need of a quicker and cleaner claim process," said Rep. Ryan Mackenzie. "Escaping domestic violence sometimes involves relocating suddenly and finding a new job. My bill represents one small way we can help make the ordeal a little less complicated."

The proposal put forth by Mackenzie seeks to clarify current law regarding a domestic violence victim’s eligibility for UC benefits. It would provide victims with various methods for documenting their situation and expedite the benefit application process, which can often be lengthy.

Furthermore, the bill would provide relief for employers when an employee leaves work due to a domestic violence situation. This relief would prevent any negative impact on the employers' tax rates for these claims unless the domestic violence situation itself was related to the employment.

The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Community Legal Services, and Philadelphia Legal Assistance have expressed their support for the bill. Mackenzie acknowledged the collaboration with advocates and legal services groups in crafting the legislation.

"We expect it to receive bipartisan support and are hopeful for quick passage and enactment," Mackenzie stated.

For more information and to view a video of Mackenzie’s comments on the bill, interested individuals can visit RepMackenzie.com or Facebook.com/RepMackenzie.