Unemployment benefits for striking workers gain approval from Washington Senate
Workers in Washington moved a step closer to gaining access to unemployment insurance during strikes, after a bill that would extend the benefits passed the state Senate on Friday.
Under Senate Bill 5041, workers would become eligible for unemployment benefits on the second Sunday after a strike begins, plus a one-week waiting period. Unemployment insurance would also open up to people blocked from working by employers through lockouts — a tactic that can be used to pressure employees during labor negotiations.
A similar bill won approval in the state House last year, but failed to receive a vote in the Senate.
Labor unions are among the bill’s backers. Supporters say the legislation would help ensure striking workers can afford necessities such as food and rent. They also argue that dragging out negotiations is becoming a more common bargaining strategy for employers. This can leave striking workers in a weakening position as they go without pay and their finances erode.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/03/07/unemployment-benefits-for-striking-workers-gain-approval-from-washington-senate/