Labor & Employment (Unemployment)

Eliminates the "until June 30, 2026" sunset on the increase in the total amount of earnings a partial-unemployment insurance claimant can receive before being entirely disqualified for unemployment insurance benefits.

Eliminates the "until June 30, 2026" sunset on the increase in the total amount of earnings a partial-unemployment insurance claimant can receive before being entirely disqualified for unemployment insurance benefits.

HB 7440 allows workers who are on strike or locked out during a labor dispute to receive unemployment benefits, which they were previously denied. It directly affects employees involved in strikes or employer lockouts, removing the prior bar to benefits unless specific exceptions apply. Key provisions state workers qualify if the lockout aims to resist collective bargaining or gain concessions, but not if it responds to a strike at another company in a multi-employer group or if the employer offered a 3-day extension of current terms that was refused. The bill takes effect upon passage and clarifies that benefits continue if unemployment lasts more than a week after the dispute ends.

SB 2170 would allow workers who are on strike or locked out by their employer during a labor dispute to receive unemployment benefits. This directly affects employees participating in strikes or facing workplace lockouts due to labor disagreements. The bill changes current rules by expanding eligibility for unemployment benefits to cover these specific situations. It aims to provide financial support to workers during active labor disputes, rather than requiring them to exhaust other options first.