Local officials in Kentucky are working to help recently laid-off employees. This comes as unemployment rates skyrocket across the state due to COVID-19.
Governor Beshear removes some obstacles
In early 2019, Kentucky received more than 1900 unemployment claims. But rates increased by eight times since then. Because of this, Governor Andy Beshear removed some barriers for unemployment insurance, like the mandatory “waiting week,” which prevented workers from collecting benefits while waiting for their claims to get processed.
Service worker layoffs add to the uptick
Service industry employees are getting the brunt of the layoffs, as businesses considered “nonessential” dismiss workers or close indefinitely. One restaurant owner in Louisville says countless food service workers don’t know what’s going to happen to them, as many live paycheck to paycheck.
Officials request citizens to follow guidelines
Due to the high demand, state officials are advising Kentuckians to carefully follow their instructions to make sure everyone can get their benefits without overwhelming the system. And while Kentucky Career Center offices are closed, people can speak with career center representatives over the phone.
There is hope for Kentucky workers
Kentuckians worry what the future holds for them. And while employers foot the bill for these benefits, not all of them cooperate. Luckily, there are ways for citizens to work with both employers and government offices for workers to get the financial support they deserve.