To initiate the SQSP process, provide supplemental instructions, and define additional requirements for the FY 2019 SQSP.

Building on lessons learned from previous state implementations of modernized UI IT systems, the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) facilitated the development of a UI IT Modernization Pre-Implementation Planning Checklist for states to use prior to "going live" with a new UI Benefits and/or Tax system. Prior to the production launch of a UI IT system, State UI agencies must use the ETA 9177 Checklist Report to verify that necessary system functions are available and/or that alternative solutions are developed to help avoid major disruption of services to UI customers and to prevent delays in paying UI benefits when due.

To provide information to states about FY 2018 UI State Administration base resource allocations, general guidelines for resource planning, above-base funding, and SBRs.

To provide State Workforce Agencies with:

1. Preliminary FY 2019 base resource planning targets for UI operations to be used in planning and developing State Quality Service Plans (SQSP);
2. General guidelines for FY 2019 resource planning; and
3. An explanation of how the U.S. Department of Labor (Department) allocates base resources among states.

To provide State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) guidelines and key dates for the completion of the 2018 UI BAM paid and denied claims sample cases and the publication of 2018 BAM data. This annual instruction is issued under Employment and Training (ET) Handbook No. 395, 5th Edition’s OMB approval 1205-0245.

To direct states currently operating RESEA programs to continue RESEA activities in a manner consistent with their approved FY 2017 RESEA grant application, provide final FY 2018 funding allotments, identify provisions of FY 2017 RESEA operating guidance that will remain in effect during FY 2018, and inform states of new flexibilities available for administration of the RESEA program.

To transmit the subject computation for State Workforce Agency usage in computing minimum weekly DUA amounts for all major disasters declared during the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2018.

To provide information to State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) about the application of sequestration in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018, how the U.S. Department of Labor (Department) will apply sequestration to mandatory Unemployment Insurance (UI) programs and on delayed benefit payments from prior fiscal years, and the resulting administrative costs.

To transmit the subject computation for State Workforce Agency usage in computing minimum weekly DUA amounts for all major disasters declared during the third quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2018.

To ensure states are aware of the locality-based salary rates for certain Federal civilian employees.