March 2, 2010

Important Notice on Unemployment Compensation Legislation

The Florida House and Senate took action on March 2, 2010 to approve legislation to suspend for a period of time the unemployment compensation tax rates, which went into effect on January 1, 2010.

As the first order of business for the 2010 Legislative Session, legislators in both the House and Senate voted unanimously to approve the legislation, which was also signed by Governor Crist. Legislators recognized the importance of business to the economy as well as the need to provide relief and save jobs. This bill allows employers to make their regular payments in quarterly installments.

Bottom line, this is short term relief for 2010 and 2011. Businesses should still prepare for 2012 and the inevitable increases.

Please don’t hesitate to let us know if there are any questions. The full text of the bill (House Bill 7033) can be viewd at: www.floridahouse.govand www.FloridaSenate.gov.

Evon Emerson
President and CEO

Resources and Information

• Pensacola Chamber newsletter, December 2009 (Unemployment Compensation)
• Florida Chamber – Unemployment Compensation Tax Increases
• 2010 Unemployment Compensation Tax Rates Fact Sheet
• Unemployment Compensation Tax Rate Calculations, Senate Commerce Committee, Dec. 7, 2009
• Increase in Unemployment Compensation Tax

Staff contact: Natalie Prim, Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce