DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — A new Ohio law allows the spouses of transferred military members to collect unemployment benefits if a move forces spouses to quit their jobs.
An analysis by the nonpartisan Ohio Legislative Service Commission found about 44 military spouses will claim benefits under the law each year, for a cost of about $242,000 annually.
The Dayton Daily News reports that's a fraction of the $854 million the state paid out in unemployment benefits last year.
GOP state Rep. Rick Perales of Beavercreek in suburban Dayton introduced the bill, which was signed last month by fellow Republican Gov. John Kasich.
Perales says the bill shows military families that Ohio appreciates their service and sacrifice, and that they are welcome in the state.