(HARRISBURG) – Deployments present military families with a number of challenges. A loophole preventing spouses from collecting unemployment is no longer one of them, as a result of a new law advanced by Senator Lisa Baker (R-20).
Act 156 of 2022 clarifies that a spouse’s move to follow their active duty husband or wife will not be considered voluntary if it is determined that continued employment would be impractical or unreasonably difficult. Previously, the resignation could have been considered voluntary, and they may not have qualified for benefits.
“Supporting the brave men and women in uniform who serve our country must also include addressing the issues that arise for their families,” Senator Lisa Baker stated. “While the cost is not high, this meaningful change is an important way in which we acknowledge the sacrifices of those who defend our freedom.”
Pennsylvania was one of only four states without a specific military spouse clause. According to data from the Defense Manpower Data Center, there are nearly 2,000 military spouses in Pennsylvania.
“This needed change will help to ensure that Pennsylvania’s unemployment compensation law is fair to military spouses, who must relinquish their job to follow their spouse to a new duty station,” Senator Lisa Baker said. “I’m pleased that Pennsylvania now joins the vast majority of other states by enacting this sensible protection.”
Signed earlier this week by Governor Tom Wolf, Act 156 takes effect immediately.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kate Flessner kflessner@pasen.gov 717-787-7428