Duration of weekly unemployment benefits; prescribe method of determining.

SB 2678 changes how long unemployed workers in Mississippi can receive benefits. It ties the maximum number of weekly benefit weeks directly to the state's average unemployment rate over the previous three months, using specific thresholds: 12 weeks at or below 5% unemployment, 16 weeks between 5-7%, 20 weeks between 7-10%, and 26 weeks above 10%. The Mississippi Department of Employment Security must publish monthly unemployment rates and corresponding benefit weeks on its website. This bill affects all individuals filing initial unemployment claims starting July 1, 2026, when it takes effect.