(INVESTMENT WATCH) – At least nine states have announced that they will be ending participation in unemployment assistance programs directed at alleviating problems produced by the coronavirus pandemic. Among them: $300 unemployment checks, which for any state that doesn’t opt out will be extended through Sept. 6.
Tennessee is one of the latest states to opt out of the program, as many state Republicans argue the additional funds allow low-wage workers to make more money while staying at home.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee informed the United States Department of Labor Tuesday, joining Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, and South Carolina in ending state participation in federal unemployment programs.