Rep. Johnson Seeks More Funding for EEOC to Fight Discrimination Against Unemployed

Statement

"Our country is emerging from the worst recession in generations. Millions of Americans -- our neighbors, friends, and constituents -- are still out of work. Millions of those we represent have been out of work for more than 99 weeks.

It is difficult for anyone not in their shoes to fully understand the economic and emotional hardship caused by long term unemployment.

We all agree that we must help these Americans who are too often unemployed due to no fault of their own. That is why I have serious concerns regarding the recent news reports about the blatant discrimination against the unemployed.

According to news reports, employers are posting job advertisements stating: "must be currently employed" or "no unemployed candidates will be considered at all."

This is unacceptable. A policy where employers discriminate against the unemployed is unfair, unreasonable and simply ignores the effect of the recession on millions of highly-qualified workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own."

Johnson said, "Although this amendment failed, I will continue to speak out about this issue and urge my colleagues to do the right thing to provide protections to the unemployed as they struggle to return to the workforce."

Source