https://www.siliconvalley.com/2020/12/02/edd-legislature-hearings-probe-disgraced-state-agency-layoff-jobs/ > State lawmakers from both sides of the legislative aisle demanded on Wednesday that the Legislature conduct hearings to probe the disgraced Employment Development Department, which has been jolted by revelations of unemployment claims being filed on behalf of state prison convicts. > California investigators have identified at least $400 million paid on an estimated 21,000 unemployment benefit claims that were filed on behalf of state prison convicts, according to state Sen. Jim Nielsen, a Republican whose district includes parts of Tehama County, Butte County, Glenn County, Sutter County, and Placer County.