LINCOLN- Nebraskans who get laid off from work could have a tougher time if state lawmakers pass a bill that has been flying under the radar so far. LB1170 would cut the length of time people could get unemployment benefits by nearly 40%, slashing the maximum from 26 weeks down to 16 weeks. State Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston introduced the bill.

It has now advanced from the Business and Labor Committee, which he chairs, and has been named a committee priority, which increases the chances it will be debated by the full Legislature. Riepe called the measure a “motivation bill” that could encourage workers to take jobs more quickly, while saving money for the state’s unemployment trust fund.

“I’m not trying to be brutal on this thing,” he said. “There’s plenty of job opportunities in the marketplace.” But opponents said the measure would shrink an important safety net. They said it would force more workers to take jobs that are not a good match for their skills and experience, or it would leave them and their families without needed benefits.

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