T
he National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is sounding the alarm over Massachusetts' rising unemployment rate, which has climbed to 4.6%. The group warns that lawmakers' inaction could worsen the state's unemployment insurance crisis and further burden small business owners.

    According to NFIB, Massachusetts employers are still on the hook for nearly $5 billion in pandemic-related UI debt, with $2.1 billion tied to a state accounting error. Unlike New York, which recently committed over $6 billion from state reserves to erase its UI debt, Massachusetts has yet to take similar action.

    The current maximum weekly UI benefit in the state is $1,051, and recipients can collect benefits for up to 30 weeks – among the longest durations in the nation. NFIB's Massachusetts state director, Christopher Carlozzi, says this situation is unsustainable and calls on lawmakers to address the crisis by reforming the system and committing state funds.

    "The longer we delay, the more calamitous it becomes for small business owners," Carlozzi said. "It's time for elected officials to tackle reforms and take pressure off overtaxed employers." NFIB has launched a radio and digital ad campaign urging lawmakers to prioritize UI system reforms.