Republicans eager for the economy to reopen complain that expanded unemployment benefits are making it difficult for some businesses to keep or rehire their workers. But many workers across the country who left their jobs during the coronavirus pandemic haven’t received benefits in the first place. The new policies made even more workers eligible for unemployment benefits, extending coverage to independent contractors and gig workers. Republicans, however, are more fixated on the possibility that, because of the extra $600 per week, some workers might turn down job offers. Business groups have long argued against generous benefits, worrying about being forced to raise pay for the lowest-wage workers.

Source: Huffington Post May 21, 2020 12:33 UTC