Greensboro, NC -- If you have ever been unemployed, you know it's a lot of waiting and working to find a job. North Carolina Senator Richard Burr wants those collecting unemployment benefits to spend some of that time volunteering, and he doesn't want it to be optional.
The Senator introduced the Extended Unemployment Benefits Reform Act of 2012. In the plan, in order to get extended benefits after six months, a person would have to complete 20 hours of public service and 20 hours of active job search per week.
"Engagement in volunteer service will encourage unemployed workers to maintain job skills, marketability, and a sense of self-worth while providing for the betterment of their communities," said Sen. Burr. "Even more, the active job search requirement will enhance the integrity of the unemployment system and its ability to identify and serve those most in need."
Some exceptions to this requirement:
If a person made a concerted effort to volunteer, but could not find an opportunity because of limited volunteering services, states would have the discretionary power to waive the requirement.
If the unemployed person is ill, has a family emergency, or is unable to perform public service because of child care responsibilities or lack of transportation, they could also be exempt.
The bill defines public service as working for a 501 (c) (3) organization or federal, state or local agency. The bill protects government workers from displacement by only permitting volunteering with a governmental agency when permitted by current law.
According to Sen. Burr's office, the bill allows the "work activities" recognized by the federal government in welfare reform to reduce required public service. These activities include subsidized private sector employment and on-the-job training.
The Senator said he has 17 colleagues that have joined him as co-sponsors to this legislation.
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