Washington’s law allowing unemployment benefits for workers involved in labor disputes has now been in effect for six months, with more than 100 workers receiving assistance since the program launched on Jan. 1, 2026.
According to the Washington Employment Security Department, 138 workers have received benefits totaling nearly $506,000 over 642 weeks of payments. Eligible workers may receive up to six weeks of unemployment benefits after a strike begins, following a waiting period established in state law. Traditional unemployment benefits remain available for up to 26 weeks for workers who qualify under other circumstances.
The policy, approved by the Legislature in 2025, was the subject of significant debate. Supporters said the program provides temporary financial assistance to workers participating in labor disputes, helping cover essential expenses such as housing and food while negotiations continue. Opponents argued the change could encourage longer strikes and increase financial pressure on employers.
The number of recipients is expected to grow as employees participating in the ongoing strike at Hilton’s Embassy Suites in Seattle have applied for benefits. Workers there began striking on June 18 while seeking higher wages, year-round health care coverage, and increased staffing. Hilton has said it remains committed to negotiating in good faith toward an agreement with the union.
The Employment Security Department does not identify employers whose workers receive benefits or disclose how many individual labor disputes have resulted in payments. Workers who are locked out by their employers are also eligible for the program. If a strike is later determined to have violated state or federal law, recipients may be required to repay benefits.
State law requires the Employment Security Department to issue annual reports evaluating strike activity and the program’s effect on the unemployment insurance trust fund. The current law is scheduled to expire at the end of 2035 unless extended by the Legislature.
