California Senate Advances SB 1116: Workers Could Claim Unemployment After Two-Week Strike
Potential Impact on Worker Rights and Social Protections
The Senate Labor, Public Unemployment and Retirement Committee approved Senate Bill 1116 on April 24th. The bill proposes allowing workers to receive unemployment benefits after two weeks of striking. This could have a significant impact on workers rights and social protections in California, according to the published article of Ballot Pedia.
Similar legislation was passed by California lawmakers in 2023 but Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed it. Now, Senate Bill 1116 is moving forward again signaling a renewed effort to address labor issues in the state.
Unemployment insurance is a program jointly administered by the federal and state governments. It provides temporary financial assistance to eligible workers who have lost their jobs and are actively seeking new employment. Recipients receive weekly cash benefits which are a percentage of their previous wages.
California Senate Bill 1116 Sheds Light on State vs. Federal Control in Unemployment Insurance
While the federal government oversees the general administration of unemployment insurance, states have control over specific aspects of their programs. This includes eligibility requirements and the duration of benefits. Senate Bill 1116 highlights the ongoing interaction between state and federal policies in this area.