Florida Politicians Press Governor Over Delayed Unemployment Claims

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) is facing heightened criticism and pressure over the state’s stalled unemployment system.

Florida lawmakers have penned a letter to DeSantis pressing him to provide frustrated residents with a timeline on unemployment benefits.

“Bills have a timeline. Therefore people’s unemployment benefits need to have a timeline. People need to organize their finances. They have obligations; families to support,” Rep. Darren Soto (D-Fl.) said. “They need to know when this help is coming in.”

Echoing similar concerns, Rep. Val Demings (D-Fl.) also used her platform to urge DeSantis to expand unemployment amid the 🦠Coronavirus Outbreak.

“The governor should immediately use his power to increase Florida’s pathetic $275/week unemployment assistance and increase the amount of time that it’s available,” she tweeted.

A Florida-based Democratic consultant also noted DeSantis’ limited knowledge and the state’s handling of unemployment during the 🦠Coronavirus Outbreak.

Last week, the governor admitted he still had not received unemployment figures from the state department.

The latest criticism comes amid the launch of Florida’s new data tracking website which offers a breakdown of the state’s unemployment statistics. The state’s coronavirus shutdown — which began on March 17 — has resulted in unemployment for more than 1.5 million residents.