Despite the implementation of a new $106 million unemployment system, called Frances Online, many unemployed Oregonians continue to face delays and difficulties in receiving benefits. The system, intended to resolve longstanding issues, has brought new challenges, including communication breakdowns and a lack of staff to handle the workload, leaving claimants like Caryne Mount and Nicole Powser in financial hardship. The Employment Department acknowledges the problems but claims that most claims are still being processed quickly, though delays persist for some. The Legislature has allocated additional funding to hire more staff, but it will take months to see the benefits of these hires. Despite criticism from the media and recommendations from auditors to hire an ombudsman, the Employment Department maintains that it is effectively addressing issues and that an ombudsman is not currently a priority.
