From the Maine Department of Labor website: On March 17, Governor Mills and the Legislature enacted bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility in Maine’s unemployment benefits program. It expands eligibility for benefits to people who are affected by COVID-19 but have not lost their job. The full text of the legislation can be found at: http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=SP0789&item=1&snum=129
- To review frequently asked questions, please download the Unemployment Insurance FAQs Regarding COVID-19 document (PDF)
- To file for unemployment benefits, visit: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/
According to the Sun Journal, a person is now eligible to collect unemployment benefits in the following situations:
- An employer temporarily ceases operation due to COVID-19.
- An individual is quarantined with the expectation of returning to work once the quarantine is over.
- An individual leaves employment due to risk of exposure or infection.
- An individual leaves employment to care for a family member.
For more information, visit the Bureau of Unemployment Compensation site.