October 25, 2011
0030.15z
UNISYS Water Vapor GOES East Satellite (click title to entry for 12 hour loop - thank you)
There is also another tropic depression in the eastern Caribbean north of Venezuela.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Wind and solar energy don't have these 'side effects.'
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has dropped his legislative “hold” (click title to entry - thank you) on a bipartisan pipeline safety bill, paving the way for quick Senate action on the measure.
A Senate Democratic aide said the bill could be quickly moved through the chamber under unanimous consent Monday.
Paul and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) said Monday night in the Capitol that there's an agreement to attach a Paul amendment to the bill.
Paul's amendment addresses testing of older pipelines that he was concerned would not have been covered by the bill, he said. Paul recently met with the National Transportation Safety Board, which probed last year's fatal natural gas pipeline explosion in San Bruno, California.
"We came to the conclusion that most of the accidents were occuring on older pipelines," Paul told The Hill in the Capitol Monday. "And so we thought there needed to be some testing done on the older pipelines."
Paul said the amendment "looks at the older pipelines and says if there is no history of them having a pressure test, then a pressure test has to be done. That would have actually detected San Bruno's problem before the accident."
Feinstein said she worked with Paul and that it's a "good amendment."
"It should pass tonight," she said of the overall bill.
Paul had been preventing quick Senate action on the bill, which unanimously cleared the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee in May, expressing concern that a bill creating new regulations would sail through the chamber without enough discussion....
Devastation (click here)after the explosion on Thursday night in the suburban community of San Bruno that sparked a huge fire that killed four people and destroyed 38 properties.
It really wasn't aged pipe that caused the explosion. It was substandard regulations.
It really wasn't aged pipe that caused the explosion. It was substandard regulations.
California Gas Line Had Unusual Construction
10/17/11 04:59 PM ET
By REBECCA SMITH, STU WOO, CASSANDRA SWEET, AND BOBBY WHITEDeath Toll Rises to at Least Four in San Francisco Suburb Where Dozens of Houses Were Destroyed; Questions About Pipeline Safety
SAN BRUNO, Calif.?The ruptured natural-gas pipeline that exploded and destroyed 58 homes in the San Francisco suburb of San Bruno contained a longitudinal seam and numerous welds indicating it had been made from many small segments of steel pipe?an unusual configuration?federal investigators said Saturday.While the pipe configuration isn't necessarily a violation of a safety code, NTSB Vice Chairman Christopher Hart said Saturday evening, investigators would need to determine if the numerous welds could have weakened the pipe.
Mr. Hart said his team would "dig deeper" to determine if the pipe failed due to its unusual configuration....
The first of the criminal proceedings in the Massey Mine Deaths begins.
US mine boss on trial for deaths of 29 miners (click title to entry - thank you)
11:59 AM Tuesday Oct 25, 2011Federal law forbids such advance warnings of spot mine safety checks. Stover had told investigators that mine policy barred this illegal practice, and that he would have fired any guard who violated it, according to the indictment....
Congratulations to the people of Libya. There is peace of mind now.
This is exactly the same type of display that occurred with Saddam's sons.
I don't believe anyone has to apologize for the death of a heinous dictator. This display is obviously desired by the Libyan people who believe Gaddafi was nothing short of a demi-god.
Does it really matter how he died, so long as he is officially recognized as Gaddafi. He could have left the country and saved his life, but, he did not. He spoke in complete defiance of the Libyan people when he stated, "He was Libyan and he would live or die in Libya." The people, including the Interim government military, were afraid of him. They were unsure of his potential power and now knowing he is dead will bring about a different sense of power of the new government. They destroyed the monster whom proclaimed he was indestructable.
Why are Republicans obstructionists and willing to destroy the country? Unions. This article from NJ is conclusive.
New Jersey - Educational Attainment
- In 2005, New Jersey (click here) ranked 6th among the 50 states in the percentage of its adults aged 25 to 64 with at least high school diploma (89.4%).
- New Jersey ranked 3rd in the percentage of adults aged 25 to 64 with a bachelor’s degree or higher (37.7%) and 6th in the percentage with a graduate or professional degree (13.5%).
- Relative to the U.S. average, New Jersey has higher percentages of adults who have completed bachelors, graduate, and professional degrees (see below).
Now, some free lancers, Hedge Fund Managers, want everyone to believe they are the saints of all saints to New Jersey citizens.
Hedge fund manager readies for battle with NJEA to reform NJ schools (click title to entry - thank you)
Published: Sunday, October 23, 2011, 6:01 AM
Updated: Sunday, October 23, 2011, 10:49 AM
(Tepper said) “I’m tired of making money and am now trying to figure out the best way to give it away,” he says.
Why is it I just don't buy that statement? I have a better idea. Rather than seeking to destroy one of the best unions in New Jersey, that delivers a magnificent product to their citizen-parents, why don't the Hedge Fund Managers begin new employment for parents? Or actually 'bailout New Jersey' from its potential deficit of the retirements funds CAUSED by Hedge Fund managers that bankrupt the banks? How does that sound?
...“With all due respect to Mr. Tepper, I am not interested in what he thinks,” says state Sen. Richard Codey, an Essex County Democrat. “I don’t think he has any clue what’s going on in the classrooms. Other people should be making these decisions, not hedge fund people. We’ve seen too much of this. It’s like buying public policy. Enough is enough.”
Tepper is like the cocky new kid on the playground, picking a fight with the bully on his first day....
This isn't about children. It isn't about children in empoverished neighborhoods. It is about destroying unions and robbing their retirement benefits. It is the ultimate merger of government and private enterprise. Destroy the union and rid the state of any obligation to truly effective educational standards.
The NJEA has always excelled with the children in New Jersey. Their citizens are among the best educated in the nation. There is profoundly nothing wrong with the NJEA. If anything it is a sincere success story when it comes to providing education to children that inspires to excell in their lives and priorities.
The problem in impoverished neighborhoods and education is frequently the availability of parents able to oversee homework and good attendance. Poverty does not propagate the best circumstances for parenting. Additionally, the drug culture is entrenched in impoverished neighborhoods. Violence and childhood trauma appears to be making a permanent impression on young minds. A violent mind can't learn. Why? Because 'fight and flight' is not condusive to learning, it is however helpful in survival.
....His co-pilot on this is Alan Fournier, of Far Hills, another hedge fund manager who used to work for Tepper.
“We will spend as much as necessary for as long as necessary to help the kids in New Jersey,” Fournier says. “The NJEA is focused on protecting the status quo for adults. Our effort is to help the kids. We do intend to be a counterweight.”
Which party will benefit? That depends on how Democrats respond to this....
I want a Constitutional Amendement.
Equality to all genders and free vasectomies for male citizens.
It will be a new mission for Planned Parenthood.
It will be a new mission for Planned Parenthood.
If the Right Wing insists on an Anti-Abortion movement, it might work out.
IF!
Men were required to have a vasectomy after fathering two children and carried a State Issued Picture ID stating he had a vasectomy.
OR
Men were tatooed inside their upper lip with the statement, "Seedless.
OR
Men were branded on their buttocks with the statement, "Juicey, but, sterile."
...Anti-abortion activist click title to entry - thank you) Gary Boisclair announced on Saturday that he is challenging Rep. Keith Ellison for the DFL primary. But Boisclair’s campaign isn’t about defeating Ellison, it’s about exploiting a campaign loophole that will force Twin Cities media outlets to air explicit anti-abortion advertising. Boisclair works for Society for Truth and Justice, a group that opposes abortion whose employees are registering to campaign in elections across the country....
Women are always told what to do with their bodies, but, men always manage to be removed from limiting the ability of a woman to live their lives on their own terms. I believe controlling the semen is far more important than controlling the uterus. Contraception is no longer a problem either. No wedge issue, simply compliance with reproductive freedom laws.
Men were required to have a vasectomy after fathering two children and carried a State Issued Picture ID stating he had a vasectomy.
OR
Men were tatooed inside their upper lip with the statement, "Seedless.
OR
Men were branded on their buttocks with the statement, "Juicey, but, sterile."
...Anti-abortion activist click title to entry - thank you) Gary Boisclair announced on Saturday that he is challenging Rep. Keith Ellison for the DFL primary. But Boisclair’s campaign isn’t about defeating Ellison, it’s about exploiting a campaign loophole that will force Twin Cities media outlets to air explicit anti-abortion advertising. Boisclair works for Society for Truth and Justice, a group that opposes abortion whose employees are registering to campaign in elections across the country....
Women are always told what to do with their bodies, but, men always manage to be removed from limiting the ability of a woman to live their lives on their own terms. I believe controlling the semen is far more important than controlling the uterus. Contraception is no longer a problem either. No wedge issue, simply compliance with reproductive freedom laws.To the right, Dr. George Tiller. The Pro Life movement is not about life, it is about a political wedge issue. They don't care the extremism that accompanies that politcal wedge issue either.
Ford is on his way home as Syria nears civil war.
US ambassador Robert Ford (click title to entry - thank you) made several-high profile visits to locations at the centre of opposition to President Assad. Photograph: EPA
October 24, 2011 04:41 PM \
BEIRUT: The Syrian ambassador to Lebanon (click here) said Monday that President Bashar Assad is leading reforms and dialogue among all parties in the country in a bid to face what he termed the “conspiracy” against Damascus, during a meeting with Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
“[The meeting] was an opportunity to assure Berri that reforms and dialogue in Syria are ongoing and being lead by President Bashar Assad,” Ali Abdel Karim Ali told reporters after meeting with Berri in Ain el Tinih.
“President Assad guarantees that the dialogue includes all parties so as to completely eliminate the conspiracy some are sowing against Syria, and the key role it plays in the region,” he added.
As international pressure mounts and anti-government protests continue, Syria and its allies have said that the situation in the Middle Eastern country is better than it was before, hinting that the uprising demanding reform and the fall of Assad is nearing an end….
To some extent, Assad simply reminds me of one of the 'same type' of dictator that talks about reform without delivering it. How long has this gone on and we are still hearing Assad play reformer while killing thousands of Syrians. That sounds like reform? I don't think so. The Syrians want new leadership and they are not getting it. Either Assad backs up his words with action or he needs to be indicted at the Hague for turning on his citizens. How many more thousands of Syrians have to die to end this?
October 24, 2011 06:13 PM
BEIRUT: The U.S warned Lebanon (click here) it could face serious consequences should it fail to fund the U.N.-backed probe into the assassination of statesman Rafik Hariri, during a meeting between the U.S. envoy to Lebanon and Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun Monday….
…Connelly met Aoun, an outspoken critic of the international court who has repeatedly voiced opposition to Lebanon paying its share of the court’s bills, at the latter’s private office in Rabieh….
…The issue of cooperation and funding of the STL (Special Tribunal for Lebanon), which in late June indicted four members of Hezbollah over the 2005 assassination of Hariri, has been a contentious issue between Lebanon’s rival March 8 and March 14 alliances, as well as elements in the government of Prime Minister Najib Mikati….
It is very difficult to believe all this time has gone by without a trial for the death of the late Prime Minister Rafic Harriri.
From the Daily Star in Lebanon. Lebanon has suffered over decades due to Assad's attempts to displace disgruntled Syrians as Lebanon being the reason for their unhappiness. It has always been based in ideological hared.
October 24, 2011 04:41 PM \
BEIRUT: The Syrian ambassador to Lebanon (click here) said Monday that President Bashar Assad is leading reforms and dialogue among all parties in the country in a bid to face what he termed the “conspiracy” against Damascus, during a meeting with Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
“[The meeting] was an opportunity to assure Berri that reforms and dialogue in Syria are ongoing and being lead by President Bashar Assad,” Ali Abdel Karim Ali told reporters after meeting with Berri in Ain el Tinih.
“President Assad guarantees that the dialogue includes all parties so as to completely eliminate the conspiracy some are sowing against Syria, and the key role it plays in the region,” he added.
As international pressure mounts and anti-government protests continue, Syria and its allies have said that the situation in the Middle Eastern country is better than it was before, hinting that the uprising demanding reform and the fall of Assad is nearing an end….
To some extent, Assad simply reminds me of one of the 'same type' of dictator that talks about reform without delivering it. How long has this gone on and we are still hearing Assad play reformer while killing thousands of Syrians. That sounds like reform? I don't think so. The Syrians want new leadership and they are not getting it. Either Assad backs up his words with action or he needs to be indicted at the Hague for turning on his citizens. How many more thousands of Syrians have to die to end this?
October 24, 2011 06:13 PM
BEIRUT: The U.S warned Lebanon (click here) it could face serious consequences should it fail to fund the U.N.-backed probe into the assassination of statesman Rafik Hariri, during a meeting between the U.S. envoy to Lebanon and Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun Monday….
…Connelly met Aoun, an outspoken critic of the international court who has repeatedly voiced opposition to Lebanon paying its share of the court’s bills, at the latter’s private office in Rabieh….
…The issue of cooperation and funding of the STL (Special Tribunal for Lebanon), which in late June indicted four members of Hezbollah over the 2005 assassination of Hariri, has been a contentious issue between Lebanon’s rival March 8 and March 14 alliances, as well as elements in the government of Prime Minister Najib Mikati….
It is very difficult to believe all this time has gone by without a trial for the death of the late Prime Minister Rafic Harriri.
Rafic Hariri (offical site)
This is the death of the Lebanon Prime Minister and the current dominate political party is actually obstructing justice to the Lebanese people. Defunding the tribunal cannot be tolerated. This is an international outrage this has gone on for so long.
...The Washington Post:
A Lebanese police officer (click here) and U.N. investigators unearthed extensive circumstantial evidence implicating the Syrian-backed Hezbollah movement in the February 2005 assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafiq Hariri, according to an investigation by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp....
Those that oppose the international courts, no doubt, have a reason to oppose them.
Israel has acted in support of the United Nations including returning Sebba Farms to Lebanon, but, it has never been enough for Assad. When given the unreasonable demands of Israel at times, one has to also reflect on its compliance in regard to these lands, including, Gaza and the West Bank. There have been huge concessions by Israel, but, the extremist leadership are never satisfied. Never.
The Syrian-Israeli 1967 ceasefire line has been, (click here) with few exceptions, quiet since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. While Damascus bitterly repudiates Israel's conquest of the Golan Heights in the 1967 Six-Day War, it has avoided direct entanglement with the Israel Defense Forces. Instead, Damascus adopted an unofficial policy of dispatching guerrilla proxies in Lebanon to attack Israeli personnel and their south Lebanese allies in the name of "resistance" to Israeli "occupation."
When Israel unilaterally withdrew its forces from Lebanon in May 2000, Syria faced a strategic conundrum. Specifically, when the United Nations (U.N.) confirmed Israel's withdrawal to the Blue Line—the internationally recognized Lebanese-Israeli frontier —claims of "occupation" could not be sustained.
To this end, Syria contrived a territorial dispute to justify sponsoring ongoing "resistance" against the Jewish state. This manufactured dispute centers around a small territory commonly known as the Shebaa Farms....
A Lebanese police officer (click here) and U.N. investigators unearthed extensive circumstantial evidence implicating the Syrian-backed Hezbollah movement in the February 2005 assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafiq Hariri, according to an investigation by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp....
Those that oppose the international courts, no doubt, have a reason to oppose them.
Israel has acted in support of the United Nations including returning Sebba Farms to Lebanon, but, it has never been enough for Assad. When given the unreasonable demands of Israel at times, one has to also reflect on its compliance in regard to these lands, including, Gaza and the West Bank. There have been huge concessions by Israel, but, the extremist leadership are never satisfied. Never.
The Syrian-Israeli 1967 ceasefire line has been, (click here) with few exceptions, quiet since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. While Damascus bitterly repudiates Israel's conquest of the Golan Heights in the 1967 Six-Day War, it has avoided direct entanglement with the Israel Defense Forces. Instead, Damascus adopted an unofficial policy of dispatching guerrilla proxies in Lebanon to attack Israeli personnel and their south Lebanese allies in the name of "resistance" to Israeli "occupation."
When Israel unilaterally withdrew its forces from Lebanon in May 2000, Syria faced a strategic conundrum. Specifically, when the United Nations (U.N.) confirmed Israel's withdrawal to the Blue Line—the internationally recognized Lebanese-Israeli frontier —claims of "occupation" could not be sustained.
To this end, Syria contrived a territorial dispute to justify sponsoring ongoing "resistance" against the Jewish state. This manufactured dispute centers around a small territory commonly known as the Shebaa Farms....
The New American Pioneers.
High profile arrests are made to deter involvement. What the establishment needs to ask, "Is there a reason not to be involved?"
NEW YORK (click title to entry - thnk you) — Police in New York arrested about 30 protesters including veteran civil rights activist Cornel West during a demonstration by the Occupy Wall Street movement.
A New York Police Department spokesman said the protesters were arrested on Friday because they were "blocking the entrance" of the local police precinct in New York's Harlem neighborhood. They were charged with "disorderly conduct."
Several hundred people were demonstrating in Harlem over the controversial police practice of stopping and patting down people to determine whether they are carrying arms, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.
West, an outspoken Princeton University professor, was freed shortly after his arrest, according to an Occupy Wall Street video....
The new Pioneer movement is multi-generational. Without question. There are generations of Americans seeking relief from oppression. It is incredible to think about, but, decades of activist movements have resulted in oppression due to Wall Street. Wall Street buys conservatives as if at a puppy mill and they do the dirty business of conducting corruption even at the lives of Americans while talking out both sides of their mouths.
...Like the people in Ocuppy Wall Street, (click here) and the other Occupy groups around the country, we didn’t have a set agenda. We were frustrated after millennia of a subordinated status and we were exhilarated by our camaraderie; we knew that in Iowa City, Lawrence, Kansas, and all over the west coast others were joining the demonstrations.
I remember looking up at a private men’s club along the route. A trio who might have been drawn by Thomas Nast was standing at the window, holding highball glasses, their faces reddened by whiskey, looking down at us with mingled incredulity and scorn. We cheered and marched on....
Decades and decades of oppression of women. The female citizen is still second class.
The Vatican recognizes the oppressiuon all too clearly. Catholics need to pay attention. Now, is the time to examine the conscience.
Wall Street is smoke and mirrors. That was never more evident than 2008.
Greed is not moral. For the runaway train created by prior administrations in DC there can be nothing more than distain. Wall Street seeks nothing but profits at any cost. After the USA rescued the banks in 2008, they continued to collapse the USA economy and achieved political dominance while continuing victimization of the innocent. The American citizen never expected what would come next. Americans were convinced rescuing the banks would save the economy. It didn't. It provided an opportunity for greater greed and greater victimization of the 'hand that fed them.' The people that trusted Wall Street to conduct themselves morally were betrayed and there is absolutely no reason to trust again.
The #Occupy Wall Street movement is a global movement with huge potential to create a parallel universe of economic opportunity with a moral tone that can sustain the millions if not billions betrayed.
The Vatican recognizes the oppressiuon all too clearly. Catholics need to pay attention. Now, is the time to examine the conscience.
Special Topic
Vatican Calls For Economic Equality, Sweeping Reform Of Global Financial System (click here)
Greed is not moral. For the runaway train created by prior administrations in DC there can be nothing more than distain. Wall Street seeks nothing but profits at any cost. After the USA rescued the banks in 2008, they continued to collapse the USA economy and achieved political dominance while continuing victimization of the innocent. The American citizen never expected what would come next. Americans were convinced rescuing the banks would save the economy. It didn't. It provided an opportunity for greater greed and greater victimization of the 'hand that fed them.' The people that trusted Wall Street to conduct themselves morally were betrayed and there is absolutely no reason to trust again.
The #Occupy Wall Street movement is a global movement with huge potential to create a parallel universe of economic opportunity with a moral tone that can sustain the millions if not billions betrayed.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Culinary coup for 'Occupy Wall Street' - New York Post
Big Thank You for the compassion and dedication to democracy.
Thompson was the only caretaker of these animals?
How is it that all these large cats and bears were seen running loose before anyone at the zoo reported it? All these animals were cared for by one person?
...Deputies found Thompson's body on Tuesday when they went to the farm on Tuesday on reports of wild animals running free....
What does Jack Hanna have to say about this?
...Officers armed with assault rifles have been patrolling the rural area and hunting down the animals, which include bears, big cats and orangutans.
As of Wednesday morning, 31 of the 48 animals had been shot and killed. Some had been recovered and eight were still unaccounted for as of Wednesday morning, Hanna said....
...Deputies found Thompson's body on Tuesday when they went to the farm on Tuesday on reports of wild animals running free....
What does Jack Hanna have to say about this?
...Officers armed with assault rifles have been patrolling the rural area and hunting down the animals, which include bears, big cats and orangutans.
As of Wednesday morning, 31 of the 48 animals had been shot and killed. Some had been recovered and eight were still unaccounted for as of Wednesday morning, Hanna said....
SEC. 323. STATE PLAN.
The distribution of funds for programs often have rules. This is no different and the States have to submit a plan for the funds of the " Program."
PART II—REEMPLOYMENT NOW PROGRAM
(a) IN GENERAL.— For a State to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 322, a State shall submit to the Secretary of Labor a State plan in such form and containing such information as the Secretary may require, which at a minimum shall include:
A description of the use, the bill uses the word activities, for the funds, the distribution amounts, the OUTCOMES anticipated,...
(3) a description of coordination of activities to be carried out under this part with activities under , the , and other appropriate Federal programs;
Cited Law:
So for the purpose of this bill the eligible participants are ECU Claimant (persons enrolled in unemployment)
PART II—REEMPLOYMENT NOW PROGRAM
(a) IN GENERAL.— For a State to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 322, a State shall submit to the Secretary of Labor a State plan in such form and containing such information as the Secretary may require, which at a minimum shall include:
A description of the use, the bill uses the word activities, for the funds, the distribution amounts, the OUTCOMES anticipated,...
(3) a description of coordination of activities to be carried out under this part with activities under , the , and other appropriate Federal programs;
Cited Law:
WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT OF 1998 (click here)Public Law 105-220Aug. 7, 1998 112 Stat. 936105th CongressAn Act
To consolidate, coordinate, and improve employment, training, literacy, and vocational rehabilitation programs in the United States, and for other purposes.TITLE I--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS
Subtitle A--Workforce Investment Definitions
Wagner-Peyser Act of 1933, as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (click here)
AN ACT
To provide for the establishment of a national employment system and for cooperation with the States in the
promotion of such system, and for other purposes.
promotion of such system, and for other purposes.
SEC. 1. In order to promote the establishment and maintenance of a national system of public employment
offices, the United States Employment Service shall be established and maintained within the Department of
Labor.
offices, the United States Employment Service shall be established and maintained within the Department of
Labor.
SEC. 2. For purposes of this Act--
The State Plan includes a timeline of implementation, the number of EUC...
I was hoping the participants were qualified in some way. My first impression at the
beginning of this section was that corruption of the funds could be conducted if the State
considered a prison population on work furlow to be eligible for the programs. It would allow
calculation of an institutionalized person for monies. Not that prisons aren't in need of funding
for programs, but, these monies are to be spent on persons outside of prison in need of a job.
If prisoners are allowed to be counted the State could bank roll the monies while reporting on
outcomes without qualifying as to whom they were reporting. In doing so it would also askew
the outcomes as to the success of the programs in reporting any of the "Obama Monies."
Republicans love to make Democrats, especially this President, look as fools for the funding they
infuse into the economy for the purpose of job creation and/or unemployment relief.
beginning of this section was that corruption of the funds could be conducted if the State
considered a prison population on work furlow to be eligible for the programs. It would allow
calculation of an institutionalized person for monies. Not that prisons aren't in need of funding
for programs, but, these monies are to be spent on persons outside of prison in need of a job.
If prisoners are allowed to be counted the State could bank roll the monies while reporting on
outcomes without qualifying as to whom they were reporting. In doing so it would also askew
the outcomes as to the success of the programs in reporting any of the "Obama Monies."
Republicans love to make Democrats, especially this President, look as fools for the funding they
infuse into the economy for the purpose of job creation and/or unemployment relief.
So for the purpose of this bill the eligible participants are ECU Claimant (persons enrolled in unemployment)
LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAWS OF THE FIFTY STATES, DISTRICT OF
COLUMBIA AND PUERTO RICO (click here)
(b) PLAN SUBMISSION AND APPROVAL.—A State plan under this section shall be submitted
to the Secretary of Labor for approval not later than 30 days after the Secretary issues guidance
relating to submission of such plan.
There is probably an element to the bills President Obama and/or any Democratic legislator
writes that States don't appreciate. The laws passed to the States recognize States Rights and
have the option of 'opting out,' but, with most of these laws due to the nature of the problem
there are timelines and time limits for application of the funding. In order for a State to comply
with the federal law, especially true in Red States, they may have to hire people to carry out the
law. The States, especially where there are currently Republican Governors downsizing
government and making processes less democratic, would find that distaste to their own agendas
of political discourse if they are forced to hire people to carry out laws to support their work force.
As a rule Red States like to either contract services out where they can to private entities (whether
it is more efficient or not) and/or have skeleton work force in their State with warehouse like offices
that service the public. A common State office is usually a large multi-purpose room with cubicles
of movable walls and ancient office furniture. The Red States squeeze every nickle when it comes
to State government infrastructure spending, hence shrinking their tax base by limiting the
amount of commerce they do with the public sector. Old buildings, old furniture, etc. The Red
States sincerely know how to hurt themselves and they do it so well. Limited government.
(c) PLAN MODIFICATIONS.—A State may submit modifications to a State plan that has
been approved under this part, and the Secretary of Labor may approve such modifications,
if the plan as modified would meet the requirements of this part and are appropriate and
adequate to carry out the purposes of this part.
Betcha they ask for time line extensions on a regular basis to limit new hiring of State employees.
I'd curious to look into that. There is a difference between being prudent and simply OUTDATED.
SEC. 324. BRIDGE TO WORK PROGRAM.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use funds allotted to the State under this part to establish and
administer a Bridge to Work program described in this section.
(b) DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM.— In order to increase individuals’ opportunities to move to
permanent employment, a State may establish a Bridge to Work program to provide an EUC
claimant with short-term work experience placements with an eligible employer, during which
time such individual—
What would probably be really curious to look into are stories of State employed maintenance
mechanics and the amount of bubble gum, tape and bailing twine they use as opposed to BEST
PRACTICES. It would make an interesting compare and contrast that results in excess State
spending opposed to the return to the economy and public interface. The public does not
necessarily view 'old office' space as a place of 'good service' to the monies they spend in tax dollars.
The "Bridge to Work Program" is a try it before you buy it approach to employment supported
by all kinds of safety nets for the citizen and an 'easy out' for the employers. It could work, but,
it can also do damage to people sincerely trying to 'prove themselves' to an employer when perhaps
it is simply a revolving door to the employer to keep operating costs to a minimum. I don't know
the statistic success of these programs, but, politically 'they look good' to voters.
(1) shall be paid emergency unemployment compensation payable under title IV of the
Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note), as wages for
work performed, and as specified in subsection (c);
(c) PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.—For purposes of this program—
This program has voluntary participation and require a minimum of 25 hours per week of work.
The program has exemption from usual job reporting and work hours impact on benefits during
the time the participant is under the program as opposed to permanently hired. The provisions
do not refer to employment longevity of this program in reporting statistics. At least I haven't run
across that yet.
(4) the program shall be structured so that individuals described in paragraph (1) may participate in the program for up to—
(A) 8 weeks, and
(B) 38 hours for each such week;
(5) a State shall ensure that all individuals participating in the program are covered by a
workers’ compensation insurance program; and
(6) the program meets such other requirements as the Secretary of Labor determines to be
appropriate in guidance issued by the Secretary.
Hm.
(B) unless such employer provides assurances that it has not displaced existing workers pursuant to the
requirements of subsection (h).
In the provision below there is a fair amount of 'personnel infrastructure' needed for this much QUALITY
ASSURANCE. Many states won't have a problem complying and have quality assurance standards already,
but, there are going to be states where these standards are not important, but, should be. No state or federal
program should ever exist without quality assurance to the tax payer that their investments are well made with
dividends that prove their faith in their government.
(2) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES.—Funds allotted to a State under this part for the program—
(A) shall be used to—
(i) recruit employers for participation in the program;
(ii) review and certify employers identified by eligible individuals seeking to participate in the program;
(iii) ensure that reemployment and counseling services are available for program participants, including services describing the program under subsection (b), prior to an individual’s participation in such program;
(iv) establish and implement processes to monitor the progress and performance of individual participants for the duration of the program;
(v) prevent misuse of the program; and
(vi) pay augmented wages to eligible individuals, if necessary, as described in subsection (e); and
(B) may be used—
Quality Assurance of government with such standards as noted above would make an interesting platform
for elections. I doubt there are many voters that actually know how well their tax dollars are spent in relation
to outcomes.
(e) PAYMENT OF AUGMENTED WAGES IF NECESSARY.—In the event that the wages described in
subsection (c)(1) are not sufficient to equal or exceed the minimum wages that are required to be paid by an
employer under section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) or the
applicable State or local minimum wage law, whichever is higher, a State shall pay augmented wages to a
program participant in any amount necessary to cover the difference between—
(1) such minimum wages amount; and
(2) the wages payable under subsection (c)(1).
Assurance of minimum wage. That is sad. A state program has to be legislated to be sure its participants are
receiving minimum wage. Wow. Minimum wages are being propagated as viable for best outcomes to state
programs. Wow. Where has the integrity of 'work vs pay' gone in the USA? Are we all going to be working
for SUBSISTENCE wages? Are we? The state programs seem to indicate that.
And to think that "Eligible Employers" have to be subsidized for achieving the goal of minimum wage standards
is just about as immoral as it comes. Do these participants get to say "NO" to an offer of employment under
this provision especially considering the wage they are working for is subsidized by the state and once
employed won't be? Participants will be leaving a program that pays them more than the employer they are
going to be working for on a permanent basis. The participant needs to have that information BEFORE they
begin employment with an employer of this program.
That subsidy is the carrot and stick to this program, too. I don't believe in the lack of integrity (an intangible)
of this employer-state interface. I believe the participant will be victimized more than not. Either an employer
needs the employee and treats them with dignity and anticipation or they don't.
(f) EFFECT OF WAGES ON ELIGIBILITY FOR OTHER PROGRAMS.—None of the wages paid
under this section shall be considered as income for the purposes of determining eligibility for and the
amount of income transfer and in-kind aid furnished under any Federal or Federally assisted program
based on need.
The participant cannot be penalized to other assistance, such as Food Stamps or Medicaid or SCHIP when
they participate in the program. Will they afterward though?
(g) EFFECT OF WAGES, WORK ACTIVITIES, AND PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
ON CONTINUING ELIGIBILITY FOR EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION.—
There is to be disincentive for a participant to the program. The program should be an incentive to build a
relationship with a potential employer. It would be nice if it works out that way. It would be best if the
participant is not left in worse condition financially if they are offered permanent work than they were
before entering the program, too. I don't doubt the disincentives are removed, however, what about the
disincentive that employment may be worse for their financial circumstances than unemployment and other
compensation? When is that dynamic removed? When is the private sector employment incentive be a
sincere opportunity to value than other options? When does that happen? When are people eager to leave
unemployment for the improved quality of life they and their family will have once they have 'landed the job.'
Where there are industries without unions there are profound deficits of quality of life. Take for instance trade
unions where 'union halls' are the place prospective employees receive a 'stamp of reporting' as a qualification
for 'work search' to unemployment. The union hall is actually a better job placement agency than any
unemployment office. It is where unemployment participants can actually count on knowing when they are
needed and will go back to receiving their 'good wages' again. THAT is incentive to be off unemployment
and not arbitrary removal of benefits for the sake of political pandering in states where citizens can't even
imagine the 'idea' of a union hall where qualified people report for work opportunities. Union halls are
frequently the place where interpersonal relationships with others add to finding work and good pay and also
add to competency of employable skills. It is where skilled labor can find information to update and improve
their skills. No one in a union hall wants to be on unemployment. They want to be working. Their families
suffer when they are on unemployment as opposed to when they are working. It is a place where emotional
support to the unemployed is found as well. The staff of the union halls actually seek to make the experience
better, but, work as hard as the skilled labor to be sure unemployment doesn't happen for long, but, only
between jobs. The benefits to employers of unionized workers speaks to the competency of the workers as
well as their willingness to 'love their job.' It is not only gratifying to be a skilled laborer, but, it proves a
person is worth their 'hours on the job.' If employers want to 'hire skilled labor' as they need them, then there
should be unions that can assure the quality of that labor. The very convenience of that option to an employer
should be enough to INCENTIVE unions where they have never been before.
That's what bothers me about some of the attitudes of Congressmen and women that actually believe
unemployment benefits are due to laziness and a disincentive to work. They don't understand the benefit
of work over non-work. They are from 'oppressed wage' states. They don't care about the quality of life
of the employed as an incentive to remaining employed and skilled. They don't care to know that dynamic
either. They are dangerous to the Middle Class and the integrity of the tax base of this country.
(h) NONDISPLACEMENT OF EMPLOYEES.—
(1) PROHIBITION.—An employer shall not use a program participant to displace (including a partial
displacement, such as a reduction in the hours of non-overtime work, wages, or employment benefits) any current employee
(as of the date of the participation).
(2) OTHER PROHIBITIONS.—An employer shall not permit a program participant to perform work
activities related to any job for which—
(A) any other individual is on layoff from the same or any substantially equivalent position;
(B) the employer has terminated the employment of any employee or otherwise reduced the workforce
of the employer with the intention of filling or partially filling the vacancy so created with the work activities
to be performed by a program participant;
(C) there is a strike or lock out at the worksite that is the participant’s place of employment; or
(D) the job is created in a manner that will infringe in any way upon the promotional opportunities of
currently employed individuals (as of the date of the participation).
Exactly. How many employers within this program actually use it for their work force. The problem I have
with this; is that; if these employers are looking for qualified workers to offer a good quality of life with
employment; why aren't the unemployed finding them anyway? Why are the states even spending monies
on these programs if the jobs are viable in the market place to begin with? There is an inherent understanding
that recipients of unemployment are unable to find work or are not trying to find work or simply can't seem to
make it happen regardless of reporting a job search. I think these programs are strange in that they have
perspective employment, but, are somehow not finding good employees. I find that odd, especially in such a
depressed economy for the Working Class. It seems to me there is 'something "W"rong' here.
(j) LIMITATION ON EMPLOYER PARTICIPATION.—If, after 24 weeks of participation in the program, an employer has not made an offer of suitable long-term employment to any individual described under subsection (c)(1) who was placed with such employer and has completed the program, a State shall bar such employer from further participation in the program. States may impose additional conditions on participating employers to ensure that an appropriate number of participants receive offers of suitable long term employment.
Exactly. And if the employers come up against the six month limit and offer employment, but, it turns out it is
unsustainable employment, then what? They seem like a strange waste of state and federal monies. I know
they are popular with Republicans, but, unless a participant is actually receiving or has received training to
target jobs areas where they exist what good are these programs? I want to understand 'the interface' problem
between unemployed person and perspective employer better rather than a program. Where is it failing both
of them? I believe the states with such programs really need to look at the LACK OF SUCCESS of
employers and the unemployed to find each other and why that is occurring. Where are the barriers? Language?
Culture? WAGES AND BENEFITS? There is a reason why these programs exist and I am wondering if
they aren't simply political volleys.
(2) CONTINUED ELIGIBILITY FOR EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION.—An individual who opts to discontinue participation in such program, is terminated from such program by a participating employer, or who has completed participation in such program, and who continues to meet the eligibility requirements for emergency unemployment compensation under title IV of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note), shall receive emergency unemployment compensation payments with respect to subsequent weeks of unemployment, to the extent that amounts remain in the account established for such individual under section 4002(b) of such Act or to the extent that such individual commences receiving the amounts described in subsections (c), (d), or (e) of such section, respectively.
It isn't their fault if the program fails them. It was an option and it may be a bad option for them of which they
don't realize until participation begins.
SEC. 325. WAGE INSURANCE.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use the funds allotted to the State under this part to provide a wage insurance program for EUC claimants.
(b) BENEFITS.—The wage insurance program provided under this section may use funds allotted to the State under this part to pay, for a period not to exceed 2 years, to a worker described in subsection (c), up to 50 percent of the difference between—
(1) the wages received by the worker at the time of separation; and
(2) the wages received by the worker for reemployment.
There it is. A step down program so people can adjust their lives to less wages coming into their lives. Here
we go with the assault on the tax base.
(c) INDIVIDUAL ELIGIBILITY.—The benefits described in subsection (b) may be paid to an individual who is an EUC claimant at the time such individual obtains reemployment and who—
(1) is at least 50 years of age;
(2) earns not more than $50,000 per year in wages from reemployment;
(3) is employed on a full-time basis as defined by the law of the State; and
(4) is not employed by the employer from which the individual was last separated.
SEC. 326. ENHANCED REEMPLOYMENT STRATEGIES.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use funds allotted under this part to provide a program of enhanced
reemployment services to EUC claimants. In addition to the provision of services to such claimants, the
program may include the provision of reemployment services to individuals who are unemployed and have
exhausted their rights to emergency unemployment compensation under title IV of the Supplemental
Appropriations Act, 2008, (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note). The program shall provide
reemployment services that are more intensive than the reemployment services provided by the State
prior to the receipt of the allotment under this part.
(b) TYPES OF SERVICES.—The enhanced reemployment services described in subsection (a) may
include services such as—
(3) case management;
Case Management? That is a Social Worker capacity. Since when does unemployment qualify anyone to
have the state manage their lives? If a participant can't manage their own employment then there is something
grossly wrong here. I don't believe the unemployment offices are this invasive. I think it is a privacy issue
where the state or federal government doesn't belong.
SEC. 327. SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS.
A State may use funds allotted to the State under this part, in an amount specified under an approved State plan, for the administrative costs associated with starting up the self-employment assistance program described in section 4001(i) of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008, (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note).
I like that. I like the fact the unemployed are respected for their skills and the potential for self employment.
SEC. 328. ADDITIONAL INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS.
(a) IN GENERAL.— A State may use funds allotted under this part to provide a program for innovative
activities, which use a strategy that is different from the reemployment strategies described in
sections 324-327 and which are designed to facilitate the reemployment of EUC claimants. In addition
to the provision of activities to such claimants, the program may include the provision of activities to
individuals who are unemployed and have exhausted their rights to emergency unemployment
compensation under title IV of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008,
(Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note)....
SEC. 329. GUIDANCE AND ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS.
The Secretary of Labor may establish through guidance, without regard to the requirements of
section 553 of title 5, United States Code, such additional requirements, including requirements
regarding the allotment, recapture, and reallotment of funds, and reporting requirements, as the
Secretary determines to be necessary to ensure fiscal integrity, effective monitoring, and appropriate
and prompt implementation of the activities under this Act.
SEC. 330. REPORT OF INFORMATION AND EVALUATIONS TO CONGRESS AND THE PUBLIC
.
The Secretary of Labor shall provide to the appropriate Committees of the Congress and make available
to the public the information reported pursuant to section 329 and the evaluations of activities carried out
pursuant to the funds reserved under section 322(a)(1).
SEC. 331. STATE.
For purposes of this part, the term “State" has the meaning given that term in section 205 of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note).
Fine. The next part of the bill begins on Page 106. The topic is:
PART III – SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAM
SEC. 341. TREATMENT OF SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAMS.
The fact the unemployment circumstances are so profound in 2011, the incentives to having unions within
a state needs to be examined by every state governor and legislature as a potential failure in quality of life
and quality of employment in relation to disincentives to work. I know the political thinking that people would
be employed if they worked for dirt cheap wages, but, it might explain why the states are so strapped for
monies in their treasuries if the average worker is making minimum wage. The more minimum wage employees
there are in a state the more fiscal stress within that state. The average wage of a state should improve in time
and not disintegrate that assaults their sovereignty and that of the federal system as well.
end.
writes that States don't appreciate. The laws passed to the States recognize States Rights and
have the option of 'opting out,' but, with most of these laws due to the nature of the problem
there are timelines and time limits for application of the funding. In order for a State to comply
with the federal law, especially true in Red States, they may have to hire people to carry out the
law. The States, especially where there are currently Republican Governors downsizing
government and making processes less democratic, would find that distaste to their own agendas
of political discourse if they are forced to hire people to carry out laws to support their work force.
As a rule Red States like to either contract services out where they can to private entities (whether
it is more efficient or not) and/or have skeleton work force in their State with warehouse like offices
that service the public. A common State office is usually a large multi-purpose room with cubicles
of movable walls and ancient office furniture. The Red States squeeze every nickle when it comes
to State government infrastructure spending, hence shrinking their tax base by limiting the
amount of commerce they do with the public sector. Old buildings, old furniture, etc. The Red
States sincerely know how to hurt themselves and they do it so well. Limited government.
(c) PLAN MODIFICATIONS.—A State may submit modifications to a State plan that has
been approved under this part, and the Secretary of Labor may approve such modifications,
if the plan as modified would meet the requirements of this part and are appropriate and
adequate to carry out the purposes of this part.
Betcha they ask for time line extensions on a regular basis to limit new hiring of State employees.
I'd curious to look into that. There is a difference between being prudent and simply OUTDATED.
SEC. 324. BRIDGE TO WORK PROGRAM.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use funds allotted to the State under this part to establish and
administer a Bridge to Work program described in this section.
(b) DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM.— In order to increase individuals’ opportunities to move to
permanent employment, a State may establish a Bridge to Work program to provide an EUC
claimant with short-term work experience placements with an eligible employer, during which
time such individual—
What would probably be really curious to look into are stories of State employed maintenance
mechanics and the amount of bubble gum, tape and bailing twine they use as opposed to BEST
PRACTICES. It would make an interesting compare and contrast that results in excess State
spending opposed to the return to the economy and public interface. The public does not
necessarily view 'old office' space as a place of 'good service' to the monies they spend in tax dollars.
The "Bridge to Work Program" is a try it before you buy it approach to employment supported
by all kinds of safety nets for the citizen and an 'easy out' for the employers. It could work, but,
it can also do damage to people sincerely trying to 'prove themselves' to an employer when perhaps
it is simply a revolving door to the employer to keep operating costs to a minimum. I don't know
the statistic success of these programs, but, politically 'they look good' to voters.
(1) shall be paid emergency unemployment compensation payable under title IV of the
Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note), as wages for
work performed, and as specified in subsection (c);
(c) PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.—For purposes of this program—
This program has voluntary participation and require a minimum of 25 hours per week of work.
The program has exemption from usual job reporting and work hours impact on benefits during
the time the participant is under the program as opposed to permanently hired. The provisions
do not refer to employment longevity of this program in reporting statistics. At least I haven't run
across that yet.
(4) the program shall be structured so that individuals described in paragraph (1) may participate in the program for up to—
(A) 8 weeks, and
(B) 38 hours for each such week;
(5) a State shall ensure that all individuals participating in the program are covered by a
workers’ compensation insurance program; and
(6) the program meets such other requirements as the Secretary of Labor determines to be
appropriate in guidance issued by the Secretary.
(d) STATE REQUIREMENTS.—
(1) CERTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE EMPLOYER.—A State may certify as eligible for
participation in the program under this section any employer that meets the eligibility criteria
as established in guidance by the Secretary of Labor, except that an employer shall not be
certified as eligible for participation in the program described under subsection (b)—
(B) unless such employer provides assurances that it has not displaced existing workers pursuant to the
requirements of subsection (h).
In the provision below there is a fair amount of 'personnel infrastructure' needed for this much QUALITY
ASSURANCE. Many states won't have a problem complying and have quality assurance standards already,
but, there are going to be states where these standards are not important, but, should be. No state or federal
program should ever exist without quality assurance to the tax payer that their investments are well made with
dividends that prove their faith in their government.
(2) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES.—Funds allotted to a State under this part for the program—
(A) shall be used to—
(i) recruit employers for participation in the program;
(ii) review and certify employers identified by eligible individuals seeking to participate in the program;
(iii) ensure that reemployment and counseling services are available for program participants, including services describing the program under subsection (b), prior to an individual’s participation in such program;
(iv) establish and implement processes to monitor the progress and performance of individual participants for the duration of the program;
(v) prevent misuse of the program; and
(vi) pay augmented wages to eligible individuals, if necessary, as described in subsection (e); and
(B) may be used—
Quality Assurance of government with such standards as noted above would make an interesting platform
for elections. I doubt there are many voters that actually know how well their tax dollars are spent in relation
to outcomes.
(e) PAYMENT OF AUGMENTED WAGES IF NECESSARY.—In the event that the wages described in
subsection (c)(1) are not sufficient to equal or exceed the minimum wages that are required to be paid by an
employer under section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) or the
applicable State or local minimum wage law, whichever is higher, a State shall pay augmented wages to a
program participant in any amount necessary to cover the difference between—
(1) such minimum wages amount; and
(2) the wages payable under subsection (c)(1).
Assurance of minimum wage. That is sad. A state program has to be legislated to be sure its participants are
receiving minimum wage. Wow. Minimum wages are being propagated as viable for best outcomes to state
programs. Wow. Where has the integrity of 'work vs pay' gone in the USA? Are we all going to be working
for SUBSISTENCE wages? Are we? The state programs seem to indicate that.
And to think that "Eligible Employers" have to be subsidized for achieving the goal of minimum wage standards
is just about as immoral as it comes. Do these participants get to say "NO" to an offer of employment under
this provision especially considering the wage they are working for is subsidized by the state and once
employed won't be? Participants will be leaving a program that pays them more than the employer they are
going to be working for on a permanent basis. The participant needs to have that information BEFORE they
begin employment with an employer of this program.
That subsidy is the carrot and stick to this program, too. I don't believe in the lack of integrity (an intangible)
of this employer-state interface. I believe the participant will be victimized more than not. Either an employer
needs the employee and treats them with dignity and anticipation or they don't.
(f) EFFECT OF WAGES ON ELIGIBILITY FOR OTHER PROGRAMS.—None of the wages paid
under this section shall be considered as income for the purposes of determining eligibility for and the
amount of income transfer and in-kind aid furnished under any Federal or Federally assisted program
based on need.
The participant cannot be penalized to other assistance, such as Food Stamps or Medicaid or SCHIP when
they participate in the program. Will they afterward though?
(g) EFFECT OF WAGES, WORK ACTIVITIES, AND PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
ON CONTINUING ELIGIBILITY FOR EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION.—
There is to be disincentive for a participant to the program. The program should be an incentive to build a
relationship with a potential employer. It would be nice if it works out that way. It would be best if the
participant is not left in worse condition financially if they are offered permanent work than they were
before entering the program, too. I don't doubt the disincentives are removed, however, what about the
disincentive that employment may be worse for their financial circumstances than unemployment and other
compensation? When is that dynamic removed? When is the private sector employment incentive be a
sincere opportunity to value than other options? When does that happen? When are people eager to leave
unemployment for the improved quality of life they and their family will have once they have 'landed the job.'
Where there are industries without unions there are profound deficits of quality of life. Take for instance trade
unions where 'union halls' are the place prospective employees receive a 'stamp of reporting' as a qualification
for 'work search' to unemployment. The union hall is actually a better job placement agency than any
unemployment office. It is where unemployment participants can actually count on knowing when they are
needed and will go back to receiving their 'good wages' again. THAT is incentive to be off unemployment
and not arbitrary removal of benefits for the sake of political pandering in states where citizens can't even
imagine the 'idea' of a union hall where qualified people report for work opportunities. Union halls are
frequently the place where interpersonal relationships with others add to finding work and good pay and also
add to competency of employable skills. It is where skilled labor can find information to update and improve
their skills. No one in a union hall wants to be on unemployment. They want to be working. Their families
suffer when they are on unemployment as opposed to when they are working. It is a place where emotional
support to the unemployed is found as well. The staff of the union halls actually seek to make the experience
better, but, work as hard as the skilled labor to be sure unemployment doesn't happen for long, but, only
between jobs. The benefits to employers of unionized workers speaks to the competency of the workers as
well as their willingness to 'love their job.' It is not only gratifying to be a skilled laborer, but, it proves a
person is worth their 'hours on the job.' If employers want to 'hire skilled labor' as they need them, then there
should be unions that can assure the quality of that labor. The very convenience of that option to an employer
should be enough to INCENTIVE unions where they have never been before.
That's what bothers me about some of the attitudes of Congressmen and women that actually believe
unemployment benefits are due to laziness and a disincentive to work. They don't understand the benefit
of work over non-work. They are from 'oppressed wage' states. They don't care about the quality of life
of the employed as an incentive to remaining employed and skilled. They don't care to know that dynamic
either. They are dangerous to the Middle Class and the integrity of the tax base of this country.
(h) NONDISPLACEMENT OF EMPLOYEES.—
(1) PROHIBITION.—An employer shall not use a program participant to displace (including a partial
displacement, such as a reduction in the hours of non-overtime work, wages, or employment benefits) any current employee
(as of the date of the participation).
(2) OTHER PROHIBITIONS.—An employer shall not permit a program participant to perform work
activities related to any job for which—
(A) any other individual is on layoff from the same or any substantially equivalent position;
(B) the employer has terminated the employment of any employee or otherwise reduced the workforce
of the employer with the intention of filling or partially filling the vacancy so created with the work activities
to be performed by a program participant;
(C) there is a strike or lock out at the worksite that is the participant’s place of employment; or
(D) the job is created in a manner that will infringe in any way upon the promotional opportunities of
currently employed individuals (as of the date of the participation).
Exactly. How many employers within this program actually use it for their work force. The problem I have
with this; is that; if these employers are looking for qualified workers to offer a good quality of life with
employment; why aren't the unemployed finding them anyway? Why are the states even spending monies
on these programs if the jobs are viable in the market place to begin with? There is an inherent understanding
that recipients of unemployment are unable to find work or are not trying to find work or simply can't seem to
make it happen regardless of reporting a job search. I think these programs are strange in that they have
perspective employment, but, are somehow not finding good employees. I find that odd, especially in such a
depressed economy for the Working Class. It seems to me there is 'something "W"rong' here.
(j) LIMITATION ON EMPLOYER PARTICIPATION.—If, after 24 weeks of participation in the program, an employer has not made an offer of suitable long-term employment to any individual described under subsection (c)(1) who was placed with such employer and has completed the program, a State shall bar such employer from further participation in the program. States may impose additional conditions on participating employers to ensure that an appropriate number of participants receive offers of suitable long term employment.
Exactly. And if the employers come up against the six month limit and offer employment, but, it turns out it is
unsustainable employment, then what? They seem like a strange waste of state and federal monies. I know
they are popular with Republicans, but, unless a participant is actually receiving or has received training to
target jobs areas where they exist what good are these programs? I want to understand 'the interface' problem
between unemployed person and perspective employer better rather than a program. Where is it failing both
of them? I believe the states with such programs really need to look at the LACK OF SUCCESS of
employers and the unemployed to find each other and why that is occurring. Where are the barriers? Language?
Culture? WAGES AND BENEFITS? There is a reason why these programs exist and I am wondering if
they aren't simply political volleys.
(2) CONTINUED ELIGIBILITY FOR EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION.—An individual who opts to discontinue participation in such program, is terminated from such program by a participating employer, or who has completed participation in such program, and who continues to meet the eligibility requirements for emergency unemployment compensation under title IV of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note), shall receive emergency unemployment compensation payments with respect to subsequent weeks of unemployment, to the extent that amounts remain in the account established for such individual under section 4002(b) of such Act or to the extent that such individual commences receiving the amounts described in subsections (c), (d), or (e) of such section, respectively.
It isn't their fault if the program fails them. It was an option and it may be a bad option for them of which they
don't realize until participation begins.
SEC. 325. WAGE INSURANCE.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use the funds allotted to the State under this part to provide a wage insurance program for EUC claimants.
(b) BENEFITS.—The wage insurance program provided under this section may use funds allotted to the State under this part to pay, for a period not to exceed 2 years, to a worker described in subsection (c), up to 50 percent of the difference between—
(1) the wages received by the worker at the time of separation; and
(2) the wages received by the worker for reemployment.
There it is. A step down program so people can adjust their lives to less wages coming into their lives. Here
we go with the assault on the tax base.
(c) INDIVIDUAL ELIGIBILITY.—The benefits described in subsection (b) may be paid to an individual who is an EUC claimant at the time such individual obtains reemployment and who—
(1) is at least 50 years of age;
(2) earns not more than $50,000 per year in wages from reemployment;
(3) is employed on a full-time basis as defined by the law of the State; and
(4) is not employed by the employer from which the individual was last separated.
SEC. 326. ENHANCED REEMPLOYMENT STRATEGIES.
(a) IN GENERAL.—A State may use funds allotted under this part to provide a program of enhanced
reemployment services to EUC claimants. In addition to the provision of services to such claimants, the
program may include the provision of reemployment services to individuals who are unemployed and have
exhausted their rights to emergency unemployment compensation under title IV of the Supplemental
Appropriations Act, 2008, (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note). The program shall provide
reemployment services that are more intensive than the reemployment services provided by the State
prior to the receipt of the allotment under this part.
(b) TYPES OF SERVICES.—The enhanced reemployment services described in subsection (a) may
include services such as—
(3) case management;
Case Management? That is a Social Worker capacity. Since when does unemployment qualify anyone to
have the state manage their lives? If a participant can't manage their own employment then there is something
grossly wrong here. I don't believe the unemployment offices are this invasive. I think it is a privacy issue
where the state or federal government doesn't belong.
SEC. 327. SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS.
A State may use funds allotted to the State under this part, in an amount specified under an approved State plan, for the administrative costs associated with starting up the self-employment assistance program described in section 4001(i) of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008, (Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note).
I like that. I like the fact the unemployed are respected for their skills and the potential for self employment.
SEC. 328. ADDITIONAL INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS.
(a) IN GENERAL.— A State may use funds allotted under this part to provide a program for innovative
activities, which use a strategy that is different from the reemployment strategies described in
sections 324-327 and which are designed to facilitate the reemployment of EUC claimants. In addition
to the provision of activities to such claimants, the program may include the provision of activities to
individuals who are unemployed and have exhausted their rights to emergency unemployment
compensation under title IV of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008,
(Public Law 110-252; 26 U.S.C. 3304 note)....
SEC. 329. GUIDANCE AND ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS.
The Secretary of Labor may establish through guidance, without regard to the requirements of
section 553 of title 5, United States Code, such additional requirements, including requirements
regarding the allotment, recapture, and reallotment of funds, and reporting requirements, as the
Secretary determines to be necessary to ensure fiscal integrity, effective monitoring, and appropriate
and prompt implementation of the activities under this Act.
SEC. 330. REPORT OF INFORMATION AND EVALUATIONS TO CONGRESS AND THE PUBLIC
.
The Secretary of Labor shall provide to the appropriate Committees of the Congress and make available
to the public the information reported pursuant to section 329 and the evaluations of activities carried out
pursuant to the funds reserved under section 322(a)(1).
SEC. 331. STATE.
For purposes of this part, the term “State" has the meaning given that term in section 205 of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note).
Fine. The next part of the bill begins on Page 106. The topic is:
PART III – SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAM
SEC. 341. TREATMENT OF SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAMS.
The fact the unemployment circumstances are so profound in 2011, the incentives to having unions within
a state needs to be examined by every state governor and legislature as a potential failure in quality of life
and quality of employment in relation to disincentives to work. I know the political thinking that people would
be employed if they worked for dirt cheap wages, but, it might explain why the states are so strapped for
monies in their treasuries if the average worker is making minimum wage. The more minimum wage employees
there are in a state the more fiscal stress within that state. The average wage of a state should improve in time
and not disintegrate that assaults their sovereignty and that of the federal system as well.
end.
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