HB 131

Abstract

Amends the Unemployment Insurance Act. Provides that a claimant is not disqualified from obtaining benefits during a period of unemployment caused by a labor dispute if the labor dispute is caused by the failure or refusal of the employer to comply with an agreement or contract between the employer and the claimant, including a collective bargaining agreement with a union representing the claimant, or a State or federal law pertaining to hours, wages, or other conditions of work. Provides that a claimant shall not be provided benefits for a period of the first 30 days following the commencement of unemployment caused by a labor dispute, including a strike or other concerted activities of employees at the claimant's workplace, whether or not authorized or sanctioned by a union representing the claimant, but not including a dispute during which benefits are otherwise available. Provides that the 30-day waiting period shall not apply if the employer hires a permanent replacement worker for the claimant's position. Provides that if the employer does not permit the claimant to return to his or her prior position upon conclusion of the dispute, the claimant shall be entitled to recover any benefits lost as a result of the 30-day waiting period before receiving benefits. Effective immediately.