Workers who feel unsafe returning to work can collect unemployment checks What the Texas Workforce Commission will do to crack down on fraud Consumer Reporter Heather Sullivan speaks with the Texas Workforce Commission about unemployment benefits for workers who feel unsafe. HOUSTON - Workers who don't feel safe returning to work when all Texas businesses can reopen next week may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits. Many say they're concerned their workplace won't take enough steps to protect them from COVID-19. Meantime, the federal government is also sending states $200 million to crack down on unemployment fraud. "There's not a moment in time since last year I have had a good night's rest," said Nathern Brown.