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SB 816 - This act redefines "misconduct" for which an employee may be disqualified from unemployment benefits. Currently, misconduct requires a wonton or willful disregard of the employer's interest or culpable negligence. The act changes that standard to a conscious disregard of that interest or culpable carelessness or negligence, and includes conduct regardless of whether it occurs at the workplace or during business hours. Chronic absenteeism, a willful and deliberate violation of a state standard that would require an employer to lose its license, and certain rules violations also qualify as misconduct. Currently, employees are disqualified from benefits if they voluntarily leave work without good cause. The act defines "good cause" as that which would compel a reasonable employee to cease working or which would require separation from work due to illness or disability. CHRIS HOGERTY
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