Purpose

M.G.L 151A, § 30(c) allows claimants eligible for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to receive those benefits while enrolled in approved training. The purpose of 430 CMR 9.00 is to establish procedures and interpret the standards for approval of training programs (courses) and the eligibility of claimants to participate in such programs. In addition, 430 CMR 9.00 describes the conditions under which a claimant may be eligible to receive an extension of benefits of up to 26 times his or her benefit rate if the training extends beyond his or her maximum monetary entitlement. The 26-week training extension is available only to those claimants who have filed a completed application for training with the Director no later than the 20th paid week of the claim, unless that period is tolled or waived for good cause pursuant to 430 CMR 9.05 (6) or (7). The general goal of M.G.L. c. 151A, § 30(c) is to allow claimants to acquire new skills or knowledge necessary to obtain appropriate employment, including, but not limited to, enhanced or improved employment. M.G.L. c. 151A, §§ 24 and 25(c) pertaining to work search, availability for work, and acceptance of suitable work, are waived if a claimant is otherwise eligible for UI and is enrolled in approved training.