Harkin Announces More Than $1.7 Million for Iowa's Unemployment Insurance Program

Press Release

Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has awarded Iowa $1,782,898 to improve the state's unemployment insurance (UI) program. As the chairman of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the DOL, Harkin helped secure funding for the UI program integrity activities.

"Unemployment insurance is a lifeline for thousands of Iowans weathering economic hardship. It helps them pay bills and put food on the table while they seek new employment," said Harkin. "This funding will enhance Iowa's ability to deliver this vital assistance efficiently and effectively."

Specifically, the funding will be used to upgrade program technology, enhance data systems, and secure additional staff in order to improve the program's ability to ensure accurate payments go to eligible recipients and prevent and recover improper payments. In addition, part of the funds will be used to make the claims-taking system more accessible. Today's funding is part of a national announcement of DOL awards that total more than $87 million and will benefit state UI programs in 46 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

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