S. 2731: Empowering Striking Workers Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Empowering Striking Workers Act of 2025, proposes changes to existing laws to provide unemployment benefits to individuals engaged in labor disputes, such as strikes or lockouts. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill entails:

Key Provisions

• Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers:
  • Workers can claim these benefits starting from the date of the labor dispute, specifically:
    • 14 days after the strike starts,
    • The date the lockout begins,
    • The date on which the employer hires permanent replacement workers, or
    • The date the strike or lockout ends, after which the worker becomes unemployed.
• Exemption from Work Availability Requirement:
  • The bill amends the Social Security Act to exempt individuals unable to work due to a labor dispute from the requirement to show they are available for work to receive unemployment benefits.

Objective

The primary goal of this legislation is to provide financial support to workers who find themselves in a labor dispute and unable to work, thereby helping them maintain their livelihood during these challenging periods.

Impact on Labor Relations

By supporting striking workers, the bill could potentially shift dynamics in labor negotiations, with increased financial support possibly empowering workers to hold out longer during disputes.

Relevant Companies

None found.