In 1999, the state of Colorado passed legislation that made it impossible for people locked-out of the workplace by employers to collect unemployment benefits.
The law was passed following a decision by Safeway in 1996 to lock out employees represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers after members of the union employed by King Soopers (Kroger) voted to strike the chain. Roughly 3,500 Safeway employees were locked out for 42 days, according to the Denver Business Journal.
Proposed legislation in the Colorado Senate would overturn the 1999 law and make it possible for locked-out workers to receive unemployment benefits. Striking workers would still not be eligible to receive unemployment checks.
Supporters of the legislation say it simply puts workers and employers back on the same footing they were on before 1999. Opponents argue that it could strain state resources intended for others at a time when the job picture is uncertain.
Colorado Governor Bill Ritter (D) has vetoed union-friendly legislation in the past.
Discussion Questions: Should locked-out workers be able to collect unemployment benefits? Are current labor laws stacked in favor of workers or management when it comes to the retailing business?