After Push from Congressman Horsford, Department of Labor Announces Funding to Modernize State Unemployment Systems, Combat Fraud, and Improve Equity

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Steven Horsford applauded the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) for announcing an action plan that follows his recommendations to modernize and reform the nation's unemployment system. The DOL will begin addressing acute challenges with unemployment insurance using $2 billion from the American Rescue Plan, which Congressman Horsford voted to pass in March.

"Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of hard-working Nevadans have turned to the unemployment insurance system after losing their jobs through no fault of their own. The unemployment system should have been a lifeline. Instead, it crumbled under pressure, and Nevadans faced unacceptable delays," said Congressman Steven Horsford. "While workers deserve to see comprehensive reform of state unemployment systems, I'm glad to see the Department of Labor implementing my recommendations to prevent fraud, improve claimant outreach, and reduce inequitable claim denials."

As Congressman Horsford fought to rebuild the American economy and get Nevadans back to work, he pushed the Department of Labor to improve the unemployment system and ensure that laid-off Nevadans could receive the help they needed.

On March 1, 2021, Congressman Horsford introduced the Unemployment Insurance Technology Modernization Act, which would make federal investments in state unemployment insurance systems to prevent fraud and address widespread delays and technical difficulties with state unemployment systems. Later that month, Congressman Horsford wrote a letter to Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, asking the DOL to use the Unemployment Insurance Technology Modernization Act as a guide for any unemployment modernization efforts.

Media Contact
Geneva Kropper | 202-849-0251 | geneva.kropper@mail.house.gov