HB1840

House Bill 1840 amends Arkansas law to establish stricter penalties for individuals who commit fraud within the state's unemployment insurance program. Specifically, the bill mandates a 10-year disqualification from receiving unemployment benefits for any individual found to have fraudulently collected $1,000 or more in benefits. This disqualification period begins on the date the fraudulent activity is determined. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that individuals found liable for fraudulent overpayments remain responsible for the repayment of those benefits, along with any associated penalties, interest, and costs. The individual is barred from receiving any future benefits under the unemployment program until all such liabilities have been fully repaid. The act is set to become effective for determinations made on or after October 1, 2023.