Bills of Congress June 5, 2025 by U.S. Congress

S.1984 - Striking and Locked Out Workers Healthcare Protection Act (119th Congress)

Summary

S.1984, the Striking and Locked Out Workers Healthcare Protection Act, aims to prevent employers from terminating health coverage for employees during lockouts or lawful strikes. The bill amends the National Labor Relations Act to include this protection and introduces penalties for violations. It defines 'group health plan' by referencing the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill would be to provide greater security and stability for workers and their families during labor disputes. Employers would be prohibited from using healthcare benefits as leverage during negotiations. This could strengthen the bargaining power of unions and employees.

Potential Benefits 4/5

- Provides healthcare security for workers during strikes and lockouts.
- Prevents employers from using healthcare as a bargaining chip.
- Strengthens the position of workers in labor negotiations.
- Could reduce stress and improve health outcomes for affected families.
- Introduces penalties for employers who violate the act.

Most Benefited Areas:

Labor Rights & Worker Conditions ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Public Health & Healthcare Access ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Social Equity & Poverty Reduction ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Potential Disadvantages

- May increase costs for employers, potentially leading to reduced investment or hiring.
- Could prolong labor disputes by reducing employer leverage.
- Potential for increased litigation related to the interpretation of 'lawful strike' and 'serious economic harm'.
- Some businesses may struggle to afford the penalties.
- Could create an imbalance in labor negotiations.

Most Disadvantaged Areas:

Business Prosperity & Innovation ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Constitutional Alignment 4/5

The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily based on Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8). By regulating labor relations and ensuring healthcare coverage during labor disputes, the bill aims to promote stability and fairness in interstate commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).