Oregon’s new unemployment for striking workers law went into effect Jan. 1

Senate Bill 916 will allow public and private sector workers to collect weekly unemployment benefits while on strike after a waiting period.

Here’s what you need to know:

Top 5 things to know

1. The bill is in effect now.

The Oregon Labor Movement passed Senate Bill 916 in 2025 to extend Unemployment Insurance Benefits (UI) to workers after 2 weeks of a strike.

The bill went into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

2. There is a process.

Passing SB 916 is a huge victory for working class Oregonians and a major step toward leveling the playing field.

Just because you are on strike doesn’t mean that you will automatically receive or be eligible for UI benefits, but we still encourage everyone to apply.

3. You will need to apply.

You will need to file an application and apply for weekly benefits every week of the strike.

You will be ineligible for benefits for the first full (Sunday - Saturday) 1 -2 weeks of the strike but you still need to file for weekly benefits during those weeks.

4. The benefits are less than your usual wage.

Weekly Benefits are about 40-60% of your weekly wage and will be taxed when you file your taxes at the end of the year.

5. There is a waiting period.

It will likely take several weeks for your Unemployment Insurance claim to be reviewed and for your weekly benefits to be processed.

Now that you know about SB 916, share this information with your community! To learn more about how to apply for UI on strike, go to unemployment.oregon.gov/strikes.