Scott Announces U.S. Department of Labor Grant to Improve Virginians’ Access to Unemployment Insurance
The American Rescue Plan provided funding to states to promote equitable access, ensure timely payment of benefits and reduce backlogs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), the Chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor, announced that Virginia will receive over $6.8 million -- out of $20.5 million that is being distributed across three states and the District of Columbia -- from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)to improve outreach, access and claims processing for individuals with disabilities, those who may need language assistance services, and those in rural communities. These Equity Grants, made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act, are first-of-their-kind and seek to address potential racial and ethnic disparities in the administration and delivery of UI benefits.
"The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) came under immense strain and pressure as a result of the pandemic." said Congressman Scott. "Thanks to President Biden's American Rescue Plan, Virginia will receive one of these first-of-their-kind grants to ensure that all hardworking Virginians can access the unemployment benefits that they are entitled to receive. These funds will be a great boost toward improving Virginia's unemployment insurance system."
The unemployment insurance system has helped nearly 53 million workers stay afloat during the pandemic and economic crisis and put nearly $800 billion into the economy – helping to avoid a recession and state and local revenue reductions. Virginia and the other 3 grantees were selected by DOL out of 49 applicants. The grant application was made under the Northam Administration.
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