The WFIA, along with the Association of Washington Business, Washington Hospitality Association and Associated General Contractors, has formally requested Gov. Inslee reinstate the requirement for workers to fulfill job search requirements in order to receive unemployment benefits. WFIA and the other trade groups all serve as the business representatives on the Unemployment Advisory Committee.

In a joint letter to the governor, the groups called on him reinstate the requirement, which would help employers address the need for skilled workers. As the letter notes, “Businesses in Washington are ready to get back to work – and we need our skilled workforce to rebuild and recover. Reinstating the requirement, while continuing to provide all of the reemployment support will help make the transition seamless, while supporting and increasing economic activity.”

In 2020, Inslee suspended the requirement for workers to fulfill job search requirement to receive benefits – a decision that was necessary because of the pandemic. With the state preparing to fully reopen June 30, that requirement is again needed, the letter concludes.