Ohio Senate Considers Unemployment Comp Bill that Would Hurt Construction Workers

A few weeks ago, a bill (SB 116) was introduced in the Ohio Senate that would make drastic changes to the unemployment compensation system in Ohio. The bill would reduce the maximum number of weeks that workers can receive benefits from 26 to 12 and lower the weekly benefit amount by 10%. It would also impose stricter work search requirements and penalties for workers who quit their jobs or refuse suitable work offers. The bill is sponsored by Senator Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin), who claims that it would prevent fraud and save money for the state's unemployment trust fund.

However, many groups oppose the bill, including construction employer and labor groups, such as CEA. This bill would harm workers in industries that are seasonal and/or cyclical, such as construction. Construction workers often face periods of unemployment due to weather, project delays, or market fluctuations. They need unemployment benefits to sustain themselves and their families until they can find work again. Cutting their benefits and weeks would make it harder for them to stay in the industry and maintain their skills. Also, this bill would actually decrease the state's unemployment fund rather than make it healthier.

CEA and other construction groups opposed a similar bill that was proposed in 2016, which was eventually withdrawn after facing strong opposition. The new bill (SB 116) is even more severe than the 2016 bill and has been moving quickly through the legislative process. It has already had two hearings in consecutive weeks, and many non-construction groups have supported it. The next hearing for opponent testimony is scheduled for the week of June 5th. CEA plans to submit testimony against the bill and urge senators to consider the impact on construction workers and employers.

Legislators want to hear how this bill would impact your business and workforce availability. Contact your senator and let them know how you feel about the bill. Your voice matters in this important issue that could affect thousands of Ohio workers and contractors.