AFPI Statement on Second Georgia Lawmaker Charged with Pandemic Unemployment Fraud

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Rebecca Yardley, Georgia Director at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), issued the following statement regarding federal charges against former Georgia State Representative Karen Bennett for allegedly obtaining unemployment benefits fraudulently during the COVID-19 pandemic:

"The case of Karen Bennett marks the second instance of a Georgia state lawmaker being charged with abuse of unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic in less than two months. These allegations are deeply troubling and a slap in the face to the taxpayers of Georgia.

These funds were intended to help struggling Americans during a national emergency. Instead, we see Georgia State Representatives Kate Bennett and Sharon Henderson charged with fraudulently claiming benefits to exploit the system when they were supposed to serve their communities.

This second incident by a lawmaker in Georgia only reinforces what many already know: unemployment benefits during the pandemic were ripe for abuse. Americans deserve transparency and deserve to see those who broke the law held accountable for their crimes.”