Bill Detail
An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act (combined weeks of benefits rule and certain benefits)
This enactment amends the Employment Insurance Act to provide that the combined weeks of benefits rule does not apply to benefits paid because of pregnancy or because the claimant is caring for their new-born child or a child placed with them for adoption. It also amends the Act to allow the extension of the benefit period for claimants who are in receipt of benefits paid because of pregnancy or parental benefits. Finally, it amends the Act to increase from fifteen to twenty-six the maximum number of weeks for which benefits may be paid to a claimant who is providing care or support to one or more critically ill adults.
Bill C-249 proposes changes to the Employment Insurance Act that would benefit new parents and caregivers. For individuals receiving benefits due to pregnancy or adoption, the rule combining weeks of benefits would no longer apply, potentially allowing for longer overall support. Additionally, the bill aims to extend the benefit period for these new parents.