(Office of the Governor) — The CNMI Department of Labor is informing the general public not to submit any PUA paper applications or online applications for the new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance extension, until official approval from the U.S. Department of Labor has been received.
CNMI DOL will provide proper notification to the public once USDOL approval is official.
The CNMI DOL recently attended a webinar conducted by the USDOL, regarding the new Continued Assistance Act of 2020. The USDOL provided an overview of the new program dates and key program requirements for the coordination of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Programs.
CNMI Secretary of Labor Vicky I. Benavente said there are additional changes in the new Covid-19 legislation, which the Commonwealth will be required to follow in order to participate in the federal unemployment assistance programs.
“There are also new requirements such as states must provide a method for employers to report individuals who refuse to return to work or refuse to accept an offer of suitable work. Once the department receives approval to begin accepting PUA applications, we will be issuing an announcement with detailed instructions and requirements,” said Secretary Benavente.
For further information, contact the PUA Call Center at 322-8870 / 322-8871 / 322-8873 / 322-8874 / 322-8876 / 322-8877 / 322-8878 / 322-8879 or 322-8880.
Inquiries may also be emailed to info@puamarianas.com
