States Expand Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers, Raising Debate

New York and New Jersey offer unemployment benefits to workers on strike after a short waiting period.

There is a push at the state and federal level to expand unemployment aid to striking workers. Critics argue this encourages strikes and disadvantages employers.

There have been over 300 strikes so far in 2023, a significant increase from previous years.

Workers may qualify for benefits if a strike indirectly causes their unemployment, not just direct participation.

Most states offer unemployment benefits to workers affected by lockouts, when employers bar employees from working.