Declaration of state public policy

As a guide to the interpretation and application of this act, the public policy of this state is declared to be as follows: Economic insecurity, due to unemployment, is a serious menace to health, morals, and welfare of the people of this state. Involuntary unemployment is therefore a subject of general interest and concern that requires appropriate action by the legislature to prevent its spread and to lighten its burden that now so often falls with crushing force upon the unemployed worker and such worker's family. The achievement of social security requires protection against this greatest hazard of our economic life. This can be provided by encouraging employers to provide more stable employment and by the systematic accumulation of funds during periods of employment to provide benefits for periods of unemployment, thus maintaining purchasing power and limiting the serious social consequences of poor-relief assistance. The legislature, therefore, declares that in its considered judgment the public good and the general welfare of the citizens of this state require the enactment of this measure, under the police powers of the state, for the compulsory setting aside of unemployment reserves to be used for the benefit of persons unemployed. The state of Kansas is committed to maintaining and strengthening access to the unemployment compensation system, including through initial and continuing claims. All persons and employers are entitled to a neutral interpretation of the employment security law.