North Carolina's unemployed may have to contact more potential employers each week to keep receiving jobless benefits.  This comes as the General Assembly finalizes new legislation.

The bill clearing the House on Thursday increases the contacts recipients must make weekly from two to five. Current law requires contacts be performed on two separate days. The proposal doesn't contain such a restriction.

An amendment by Rep. Jonathan Jordan of Jefferson would have changed the contact requirement to three. He says five would be a burden for employers communicating with displaced workers, and three is used by most states.

The amendment failed 49-60. Rep. Michael Speciale of New Bern says five wasn't unreasonable for those whose primary purpose should be to get hired.

One more positive Senate vote sends the bill to the governor.

300x250 Ad

300x250 Ad

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

Donate