Toledo Reporter

State Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson has introduced a new legislation that would allow workers participating in a labor strike to collect unemployment benefits. The bill aims to support Ohio workers and their families by providing financial relief during strikes.

In a statement, Hicks-Hudson emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of hardworking Ohioans. She stated, "A strike is a message from hardworking Ohioans that their needs must be met. These are not people who don’t want to work; they are people that want to work for a good wage, in safe conditions, and with the sort of benefits that keep them healthy and allow them to retire comfortably."

The proposed legislation would enable striking workers to claim up to four weeks of retroactive benefits if they file their claim after the beginning date of the strike. It also includes provisions that waive requirements for weekly work searches and remove the one-week waiting period before receiving unemployment benefits.

Hicks-Hudson's bill is a response to the ongoing strike by the United Auto Workers (UAW) union against General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis. This strike, which began in mid-September, marks the first-ever simultaneous walkout against all "big three" Detroit automakers. While tentative agreements have been reached with all three companies, some workers continue to strike.

The strike has lasted over six weeks, and the financial impact on workers is significant. The unemployment processes can be difficult to navigate, and delays in receiving benefits can exacerbate the financial strain on striking workers. Hicks-Hudson's legislation seeks to address these challenges and provide much-needed support.

The bill, known as Senate Bill 180, has been introduced and is now awaiting committee assignment. If passed, it would provide a crucial safety net for workers engaged in labor strikes, ensuring that they do not have to worry about paying their bills while advocating for better treatment and working conditions.

By introducing this legislation, Hicks-Hudson aims to give a voice to the concerns of striking workers and provide them with the necessary financial support during labor disputes. As she stated, "This legislation is an effort to support Ohio workers and their families."

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/paula-hicks-hudson/news/hicks-hudson-introduces-legislation-to-enable-striking-workers-to-receive-unemployment-benefits