CWA District 1 Condemns Governor Lamont’s Veto of Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2025

CWA District 1 Condemns Governor Lamont’s Veto of Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers

(Connecticut) - The Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 1 strongly condemns Governor Ned Lamont’s veto of legislation that would have extended unemployment insurance benefits to workers forced to strike for fair pay, safe working conditions, and respect on the job.

At a time when corporate profits are at record highs and workers are fighting harder than ever just to keep up with the cost of living, this bill was a critical step toward leveling the playing field. Governor Lamont’s veto is a slap in the face to every working person in Connecticut who has had to take the courageous step of going on strike in the face of employer opposition.

Let’s be clear: no one wants to strike. But when employers refuse to bargain in good faith, workers have the legal right to withhold their labor. Denying them access to modest unemployment benefits during these moments of last resort is unjust, punitive, and out of step with Connecticut’s values.

CWA members and our allies across the labor movement will not forget this. We will continue to fight for legislation that supports working people - not just in name, but in practice - and we call on the legislature to reintroduce the bill next session. Connecticut workers deserve better.