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Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency wins federal equity grant

Unemployment Insurance Claims Office photo
flickr
Unemployment Insurance Claims Office

Michigan is receiving millions in federal grant money to address disparities in gaining jobless benefits.

Michigan is one of five states benefiting from the latest round of federal equity grants.

The grant funding will help pay for translation services…new community partnerships…and analysis to track progress in closing equity gaps.

Julia Dale directs Michigan's Unemployment Insurance Agency. She says there will also be seminars to help new claimants understand how the system works.

“We know that U-I’s spectrum from cradle to grave is a very—it can be a long process for some, it can be confusing at times. And we want to eliminate those barriers that cause confusion.”

Dale says the programs will build upon existing work the state is already doing.