House Bill No. 6904 proposes changes to the eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits for workers involved in labor disputes, specifically those who are on strike. The bill stipulates that for labor disputes commencing on or after December 14, 2026, striking workers will become eligible for unemployment benefits after they have been on strike for 14 consecutive days. This amendment modifies the current law, which generally disqualifies individuals from receiving benefits during any week of unemployment due to a labor dispute. The new language replaces the existing provision that disqualifies claimants during such disputes, with the exception of cases involving lockouts or individuals not participating in the dispute.

The bill also clarifies the definition of a lockout and outlines the conditions under which individuals can qualify for benefits during a labor dispute. Specifically, it states that a lockout occurs when an employer fails to provide work due to a labor dispute or announces that work will only be available under less favorable terms. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill is expected to have fiscal implications, including potential costs to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and the General Fund, as well as the need for technology updates to the unemployment insurance administration system.