Dems propose new changes to Senate GOP jobless bill

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Senate Democrats want to change a Republican plan designed to fix the state’s bankrupt unemployment insurance fund.

Republicans who control the chamber have a bill that would increase the taxes that employers pay into the system, decrease benefits for the jobless and tighten eligibility standards.

Senate Democrats plan to offer amendments Monday that would increase employer taxes more than the Republican plan, but not decrease benefits. They also want to expand eligibility to get nearly $150 million in federal stimulus money.

Republicans control the Senate 33-17, and it’s unlikely they will accept major changes to their plan offered by Senate Democrats.