Local

Problems with Fla. unemployment site remain

FLORIDA — There are still problems involving Florida's failed unemployment website, even after the state announced it would cut through the red tape and immediately start sending out checks.

Residents told WFTV reporter Julie Salomone they were waiting for their benefits.

Fred Nightingale keeps his family's belongings in the car. The home where his wife and three kids are living is only temporary.

"My sister and her husband: this is their vacation home. They don't really use it because it's up for sale. So, without them, we'd be on the street," said Nightingale.

Nightingale worked as truck driver, but he lost his job four months ago. He told WFTV his initial claim for unemployment benefits was approved, but since October, he has not received any payments. The online status of his claim says "pending."

"They say their new system is to make everything easier and more speedy, but, uh, I filed years ago and it was a lot more simple," said Nightingale.

Earlier this month, federal officials came to Tallahassee to investigate the $63 million unemployment website. But even though the state announced it would begin issuing payments to people whose claims have been on hold for more than seven days, WFTV found out there were people who still have not received any money.

"The state owes me over $3,000 so far," he said.

WFTV asked state officials about Nightingale's claim. They said they would have a representative call him.