Unemployment insurance funded for two more years
Since 2023, hourly school workers have been able to receive unemployment insurance over the summer. This program is vital for reducing turnover in ESP roles and increasing flexibility and stability for education support professionals, who remain some of the most underpaid employees in public education.
Earlier this session, Republicans proposed legislation that would defund this program. The proposal received significant pushback, and Education Minnesota successfully defended against all attempts to repeal this benefit. Education Minnesota members testified to the Legislature on how this bill has benefited educators and students, highlighting reduced turnover and the benefits that increased continuity has on students.
A standalone bill passed in May funds unemployment insurance for hourly school workers for the next two summers. Education Minnesota will continue to push for this funding to be made permanent.
