California Bill That Would Provide Jobless Benefits to Striking Workers Has New Life

The Senate passes the measure. Last year’s attempt was vetoed by Gov. Newsom, who said the state’s unemployment fund couldn’t handle it.

Labor supporters and members of the United Auto Workers union march during a strike outside the Stellantis Chrysler Los Angeles Parts Distribution Center in Ontario, Calif., on Sept. 26, 2023. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

A California bill to pay striking workers unemployment benefits has again passed the state’s Senate, despite being vetoed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year.

Senate Bill 1116, authored by Sen. Anthony Portantino, a Democrat, passed the Senate May 21 along party lines. The bill now heads to the Assembly.