Legislature wants more answers about delays in Maine unemployment during pandemic

[Mike 03]

NBC News Center Maine
Author: Don Carrigan
Published: 12:43 PM EDT April 25, 2020
Updated: 12:43 PM EDT April 25, 2020

Full headline: Legislature wants more answers about delays in Maine unemployment during coronavirus, COVID-19 pandemic

While Maine Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman says the agency is working hard to deliver benefits to Mainers, the Legislature has concerns during the coronavirus

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine Legislative leaders say they want more answers about problems and delays with Maine’s unemployment system, in the face of the COVID 19 coronavirus crisis.

Top leaders of both parties sent a joint letter to Governor Janet Mills Friday night, asking Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman to answer questions from the Labor and Housing Committee to explain the reasons for what appear to be continuing delays in providing benefits to thousands of out of work Mainers.

“(As)we are all keenly aware, too many Mainers remain unable to access (unemployment insurance) today - some weeks after first applying - and are facing dire financial straits. While the Department has made progress, one of the new federal programs, which will benefit the many Mainers who are self-employed, still remains unable to accept initial applications. The status of thousands of other claims is backlogged. Phone lines are jammed and many questions submitted electronically have been unanswered,” the letter states.

Read more: https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/legislature-wants-more-answers-about-delays-in-maine-unemployment-during-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic/97-93412646-a5c0-4061-a158-08d1231c4330