RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S2170
Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session
Menu
RI

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2170

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Allows unemployment benefits for workers who are on strike or are locked out of their workplaces by their employer due to a labor dispute.

Impact

The impact of S2170 on state law is significant as it shifts the eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits in the context of labor disputes. Under current legislation, individuals are barred from receiving benefits if their unemployment is a direct result of a strike. This bill would change that, allowing workers who are not participating in or financing the strike to access benefits. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for those in a lockout situation, providing more protection for workers' rights and financial stability during contentious labor conditions.

Summary

Bill S2170, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, aims to amend the state's employment security laws regarding benefits during labor disputes. Specifically, the bill proposes to allow individuals to receive unemployment benefits if they are unemployed due to a strike or are locked out by their employer. This adjustment addresses scenarios where workers are involved in industrial controversies, ensuring they are not left without financial support during these disputes.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S2170 include concerns from businesses and employers about the potential for increased costs associated with unemployment claims during strikes and lockouts. Critics might argue that the bill could incentivize more strikes or labor disputes if employees know they can rely on unemployment benefits. On the other hand, labor advocates argue that the bill is necessary to ensure fairness and financial security for workers facing unemployment due to circumstances beyond their control. The tension between protecting employee rights and maintaining employer economic interests is likely to be a focal point of discussion as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5680

Allows unemployment benefits for workers who are on strike or are locked out of their workplaces by their employer due to a labor dispute.

RI S0587

Allows unemployment benefits for workers who are on strike or are locked out of their workplaces by their employer due to a labor dispute.

RI H5678

Requires small employers with one to fifty (1-50) employees and large employers with fifty (50) or more employees to pay overtime wages to exempt workers if their salary exceeds varying multipliers of minimum wage for a forty (40) hour workweek.

RI S0589

Requires small employers with one to fifty (1-50) employees and large employers with fifty (50) or more employees to pay overtime wages to exempt workers if their salary exceeds varying multipliers of minimum wage for a forty (40) hour workweek.

RI S0070

Requires employer, at the start of employment, furnish to their employees a written notice containing employment information relative to wages, rates of pay, allowances, benefits, deductions from pay, and identifying information relative to the employer.

RI H5679

Requires employer, at the start of employment, furnish to their employees a written notice containing employment information relative to wages, rates of pay, allowances, benefits, deductions from pay, and identifying information relative to the employer.

RI S0127

Requires the employers of unionized public school teachers, municipal employees and state employees, to provide the union, at least once every 120 days, a list of all their employees in their union, as well as their personal and demographic information.

RI H5266

Requires the employers of unionized public school teachers, municipal employees and state employees, to provide the union, at least once every 120 days, a list of all their employees in their union, as well as their personal and demographic information.

RI H5132

Prohibits psychological abuse in the workplace by employers or co-workers, ensuring a safe environment for employees, provides protection, civil remedies, and penalties for employers based on revenue.

RI H5943

Provides all employees of retail establishments with 15 or more employees engaged in work during Sundays or holidays shall receive from their employer no less than time and a half and shall be guaranteed at least a minimum of four (4) hours employment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.