North Carolina’s sharp cuts in benefits to the unemployed went into effect this week, amid a swelling public outcry.

The far-reaching changes enacted by the Republican-controlled legislature in February decreased the maximum benefit payout by more than one-third, which will result in a decline in the average weekly benefit, making the state ineligible for about $700 million in federal aid. The measure also reduced the number of weeks residents can receive unemployment aid.

The overhaul was the centerpiece of a renewed protest in Raleigh on Monday, the ninth organized in recent months by the N.A.A.C.P. and an expanding roster of allies. Critics said the state’s agenda was undermining the economic stability of residents.

“They are literally hurting people, and it is wrong,” said the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, the president of the North Carolina chapter of the N.A.A.C.P. “It’s about violating people’s deepest moral values. Even when you have a majority, you’re not allowed to violate moral values.”