In a narrow vote, the House of Representatives passed SB 5041, which would extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to workers on strike, a move that challenges the fundamental purpose of the UI system. Historically, unemployment insurance is intended to support individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own and are actively seeking employment. This bill threatens that longstanding principle.
Though the House amended the bill to limit benefits to four weeks and require mediation services, these changes fall short of addressing the broader risks to employers and the integrity of the UI system. WR has cautioned lawmakers that this policy could destabilize the unemployment insurance fund and drive-up costs for businesses, school districts, and public agencies.
If enacted, Washington would become the third state to provide UI benefits to striking workers, setting a concerning precedent. This policy could encourage more frequent and prolonged strikes while undermining the very foundation of unemployment insurance. Employers already facing economic pressures may be forced to cut jobs, reduce employee hours, or pass higher costs onto consumers.
The bill now returns to the Senate, where lawmakers must decide whether to accept the House’s four-week benefit cap or push for the original Senate version, which allows up to twelve weeks of benefits.
