Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1911

Introduced
12/12/23  

Caption

In strikes, providing for health care benefits during strikes.

Impact

By legislating the continuation of healthcare benefits during strikes, HB1911 would significantly alter the landscape of labor relations in the state. It positions healthcare as a fundamental right for workers, especially in the face of work stoppages, ensuring that their health needs do not get neglected. The bill also has the potential to set a precedent for similar regulations in other states, potentially influencing broader national labor policies that uphold and protect workers' rights during strikes.

Summary

House Bill 1911 pertains to the provision of healthcare benefits during strikes. The bill aims to ensure that workers retain access to necessary health benefits when they are on strike, thereby protecting their rights and welfare during such actions. The underlying intent of the bill is to support labor relations by recognizing the vulnerabilities workers face when they choose to strike, which often puts them in difficult financial and health situations without their regular employer-provided healthcare coverage.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1911 appears to be largely supportive among labor unions and worker advocacy groups, who view the bill as a necessary safeguard for employees' rights. Proponents argue that it strengthens the bargaining power of workers by ensuring they do not have to choose between their healthcare and their job during a strike. However, some business groups may oppose this bill, viewing it as an additional financial burden on employers, which could engender pushback against labor movements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the financial implications for employers who may bear the cost of ongoing healthcare benefits during strikes. Opponents might argue that this could discourage businesses from supporting labor negotiations or adopt more rigid stances during bargaining processes. Furthermore, there is debate concerning the definition of 'strike' and how widely the provisions of the bill could be applied, potentially leading to disputes regarding its practical implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB644

In strikes, providing for health care benefits during strikes.

PA HB345

In strikes, providing for health care benefits during strikes.

PA SB710

In strikes, providing for health care benefits during strikes.

PA SB405

In employee rights, providing for reporting of dues and for annual report; in Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board, providing for report availability; and, in collective bargaining agreement, providing for forwarding agreement to board.

PA SB397

In employee rights, providing for reporting of dues and for annual report; in Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board, providing for report availability; and, in collective bargaining agreement, providing for forwarding agreement to board.

PA HB4057

Relating to unlawful strikes.

PA HB357

In definitions, further providing for definitions; and, in scope of bargaining, providing for political contributions.

PA HB946

In collective bargaining impasse, providing for dispute resolution.

PA AB3240

Labor disputes: strikes: health care coverage.

PA HB2357

Food Secure Strikers Act of 2025

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.