CLOSE Act

The CLOSE Act would rescind unobligated balances from several CARES Act unemployment programs that were created during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill aims to address ongoing litigation that could force states to distribute pandemic unemployment assistance years after the programs ended. Supporters argue that attempting to restart these programs would create opportunities for fraud, as state records are outdated and many recipients are no longer eligible. By permanently closing these programs and returning unused funds to the federal government, the legislation seeks to ensure fiscal responsibility and prevent fraudsters from accessing pandemic-era relief dollars. The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee and has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.