On Friday, Governor Brad Little announced a new $100 million program that will pay workers directly to return to their jobs. Under this program, an Idaho worker on unemployment who returns to full-time work would receive a one-time bonus of $1,500, while someone who works part time would get $750.
The governor said he’s doing this because he’s concerned that enhanced unemployment benefits could add up to more money than a potential worker could make by going back to work.
Idaho's unemployment rate skyrocketed to 11.5%, with more than one 100,000 people out of work. So what does all of this mean for our state’s economy, and how would this new program work?
Boise State Public Radio’s Troy Oppie has been following the unemployment issue closely in the Gem State and he joins Idaho Matters live with more.
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