Bill > S2731

This bill, known as the "Empowering Striking Workers Act of 2025", would modify unemployment insurance laws to allow workers engaged in labor disputes to receive unemployment benefits under specific circumstances. Currently, most workers involved in strikes or labor disputes are typically ineligible for unemployment compensation. The bill would change this by enabling workers to receive unemployment benefits starting 14 days after a strike begins, when a lockout occurs, when an employer hires permanent replacement workers, or when a strike/lockout ends and the worker becomes unemployed. The bill defines a labor dispute broadly, including controversies about employment terms, working conditions, or workplace representation. Additionally, the bill would exempt striking workers from standard unemployment insurance requirements that typically mandate active job searching, recognizing the unique circumstances of workers involved in labor disputes. By making these changes to the Internal Revenue Code and the Social Security Act, the bill aims to provide financial support to workers during labor disputes, potentially giving them more leverage in negotiations with employers.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2731/all-info