Sebastian restaurants looking for workers.

Starting June 1, 2021, Florida residents will be required to prove they are actively searching for a job to stay on unemployment. The requirement was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic because of a lack of job openings.

“I think it’s pretty clear now we have an abundance of job openings. If you go to businesses, they want to hire people. Particularly in hospitality, restaurants, and all these things,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.

Restaurant owners in Florida have been struggling to find workers. More and more people are getting vaccinated and going out. It’s also been a problem in Sebastian.

“The hospitality industry is starving for employees. Our governor is doing the right things to get our state back to normal,” Tiki Bar & Grill owner Chris Pinson told Sebastian Daily.

Last week, Pinson said the workforce problem in Sebastian resulted from stimulus checks and overextended unemployment. He called it a universal problem all over the country with food establishments.

There is help wanted signs everywhere as Sebastian businesses need help to meet our growing demand. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association also said continued unemployment benefits are keeping some from applying.

Many people on unemployment won’t apply for jobs because they claim the unemployment benefits are paying more than their previous job.

However, most restaurant owners tell Sebastian Daily that menu prices will rise if there’s a wage increase.

Captain Hirams Resort recently offered a $200 signing bonus to attract applications.

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