Economy Politics WA bill would offer unemployment benefits to immigrants not authorized to work in U.S. [View all]
With President-elect Donald Trump promising mass deportations when he takes office on Jan. 20, uncertainty is rising for immigrants across the U.S.
State lawmakers have limited power over federal immigration enforcement. But in Washingtons upcoming legislative session, legislators will be looking at a bill to strengthen the safety net for immigrants working in the state without legal authorization.
Sen. Rebecca Saldaña, D-Seattle, is re-introducing a bill this session to help these workers access unemployment insurance.
Lawmakers, immigrant rights advocates, and business groups in Washington acknowledge the important role immigrants play in helping employers meet state and national labor needs. However, the unemployment insurance proposal is stirring concerns over costs and other issues related to privacy and employer liability.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/01/13/wa-bill-would-offer-unemployment-benefits-to-immigrants-not-authorized-to-work-in-u-s/