Department of Workforce Solutions in Crisis?

---

May 28, 2021 – Businesses have paid millions into the state’s unemployment insurance fund, which was completely depleted during the pandemic. Now, a legislative report says the state’s Workforce Solutions Department overpaid up to $250 million dollars in unemployment benefits. Even if it’s a much lower number floated by the administration – around $105 million – it’s a stunning amount. The Line debates the problem and the governor’s reaction.  

Host: Gene Grant 

The Line Opinion Panel: 
Diane Snyder, former state senator  
Tom Garrity, Garrity Group public relations  
Serge Martinez, UNM School of Law professor 

For More Information: 
Legislative report details New Mexico labor agency’s ‘storm’ during pandemic – Santa Fe New Mexican  
Report estimates Dept. of Workforce Solutions overpaid unemployment benefits by $250M – KRQE 
NM ties for third-highest unemployment rate in the nation – Albuquerque Journal 
Gov. Lujan Grisham nowhere to be seen amid unemployment overpyament crisis – KOB