Should social security income count against unemployment benefits?
SPRINGFIELD — Two suburban lawmakers are trying to repeal an Illinois law that reduces how much elderly people can collect from unemployment when they’re receiving social security.
Rep. Sidney Mathias, a Buffalo Grove Republican, and Rep. Karen May, a Highland Park Democrat, are pushing the legislation.
They argue that when the elderly choose to work in order to make ends meet, they shouldn’t be punished if they lose their jobs and become eligible for unemployment benefits.
Under current Illinois law, the social security money they receive counts against the unemployment benefits.
“After years of legislative stalemate, it’s time to bring relief to the thousands of Illinois seniors who have been unfairly impacted by the offset law,” Mathias said.
Legislation in both the House and Senate have yet to get a vote, though.