If the Whitmer Administration has its way, those currently drawing unemployment benefits in Michigan will get an additional $300 per week once again from the federal government.
This afternoon, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) submitted an application to the United States Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) for funding that would provide an additional $300 per week payment to those Michigan residents that are receiving unemployment benefits.
The governor says, “Right now, there are an unprecedented number of Michiganders who have lost work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program will provide some much needed support for families that are struggling to put food on the table or pay their bills, but it’s a short term band aid that falls short of what’s needed.” She adds, “A robust Congressional recovery package that meets the scale of this crisis is what’s needed to help individuals who have lost work as a result of the pandemic get through this unprecedented time.”
The UIA estimates that under the program, about 910,000 Michiganders would receive at least $300 per week in supplemental benefits. The program allows for existing Unemployment Trust Fund payments delivered by Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency to count as 25-percent matching funds required for participation. Eligible claimants would be paid benefits retroactive to August 1st, as well. It is unclear at this time how long funding for the program would last.
UIA Director Steve Gray says, “We look forward to receiving a response from FEMA in order to implement and distribute these additional funds to Michiganders as quickly as possible,” and concludes, “Michigan workers are advised to continue their bi-weekly certifications as they normally would and do not need to contact the UIA or make changes to their MiWAM account to receive these additional funds.”
