The New Hampshire state Senate has approved elements of the governor’s jobs initiative, known as New Hampshire Working.
According to Gov. John Lynch and lawmakers, the legislation would allow existing businesses to reduce operations without laying off workers. Companies and their workers could agree to reduced hours in place of layoffs. The state would make up part of the lost wages through unemployment benefits.
The bill is designed to reduce demand for jobless benefits and keep workers eligible for employer health benefits.
Under another provision, the Department of Employment Security would develop a system to assess the skills of unemployed workers and help them get skills or certifications.
The bill now goes to the House.