Great to see Rep. @MitziEpstein on the #MorningScoop panel today, focused on policy to improve our unemployment system in #AZ. Thanks to @AzCapitolTimes and @GrandCanyonInst for facilitating the important discussion.

Arizona's current benefits are "atrocious" says Dave Wells from @GrandCanyonInst. Our unemployment benefit amount is 2nd worst in the nation and has not been increased since 2004. #AZ #unemploymentbenefits

Our unemployment system, run by @ArizonaDES, is overwhelmed. @MitziEpstein is proposing an immediate performance audit of the unemployment insurance system. Claimants are suffering w/ horrible delays & businesses are being improperly billed too.

Rep. Cobb is asked if DES will get more funding to increase employees & improve systems. She says they're discussing how to replenish the UI system b/c the new rate for business will be set soon. Rep.Cobb says the state should look to help replenish the UI Trust Fund.

Rep. @MitziEpstein has been working to create solutions. She calls for a steady plan to improve the UI Trust Fund. She's already spearheaded a request to Congress to replenish the fund, which will help reduce burden on #AZ small business.

In the last recession, 35 states UI systems went insolvent. We may be facing a similar situation with this crisis. George Wentworth of the National Employment Law Project agrees there may need to be a national solution to this looming crisis.

"If we want to do something about this recession, the best way to stop job loss and create jobs is make sure our #unemploymentbenefits are adequate." @MitziEpstein reminds us UI benefits are an economic stabilizer, a bridge to the next job & help keep our local business alive.

Unfortunately, Rep. Cobb, Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, says there is little appetite among the GOP to increase #AZ's unemployment benefit amount above the 2nd worst rate in the country.

Reps. are asked how they respond to constituents who need help. Rep. Epstein urges people to reach out to legislators so we can help them navigate the system. We also need to hear how families are being impacted by the crisis. You can call 2-1-1 for immediate help too.