Hicks-Hudson Introduces Legislation to Enable Striking Workers to Receive Unemployment Benefits

Today, state Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) issued a statement on her recently introduced legislation to allow workers participating in a labor strike to collect unemployment benefits.

 “A strike is a message from hardworking Ohioans that their needs must be met,” said Hicks-Hudson. “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. They should not have to worry about paying their bills while they stand up for better treatment for themselves and their fellow workers.”

Additionally, the bill will allow individuals to claim up to four weeks of retroactive benefits if they file their claim after the beginning date of the strike. It also waives requirements for weekly work searches and removes the one-week waiting period before being paid unemployment benefits.

 “This legislation is an effort to support Ohio workers and their families,” added Hicks-Hudson.

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union went on strike against General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis (the parent company to Jeep) in mid-September, the first-ever simultaneous walkout against all “big three” Detroit automakers. Just this week, the United Auto Workers union reached tentative agreements with all three companies, but some workers continue to strike. With the strike lasting over six weeks, the personal financial effects are being felt, and the unemployment processes are sometimes difficult to navigate, or cannot provide financial relief efficiently enough.

Senate Bill 180 now awaits committee assignment.