New Mexico employers are hiring in droves, but unfortunately, they are also having to compete against state unemployment benefits to fill those empty positions. “Now Hiring” signs have become a frequent sight in New Mexico over the last few months as more and more counties move into the turquoise color level for covid-19 business restrictions. But as businesses shake off the dust and open up for more than just a skeleton crew and take out orders, the old employees don’t want to return. “Unemployment, unfortunately, right now is fairly lucrative. And people have figured out how to make that work for their lifestyles and so they’re not coming back to work,” Carol Wight, CEO of the New Mexico Restaurant Association, said. Click HERE for video of Carol’s interview.
Some businesses around town have begun to offer referral or hiring bonuses to entice people back to work but it’s just not having the intended results. State unemployment benefits can range from $90-$484 per week, plus an extra $300 per week until the end of September thanks to federal COvid-19 relief programs. In the past it was required that benefit recipients prove that they are still seeking new employment, but that rule has been suspended with no announcement from the state as to when it will be reinstated. Business leaders from across the state are instead having to reduce hours of operation or deal with longer lines while they get by with limited staff and employees who did want to return to work. Click HERE to read more.