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Sunday, July 21, 2024

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VP Kamala Harris says she plans to 'earn and win' Democratic nomination after Joe Biden drops out and endorses her; New Alabama bill threatens voter rights, legal challenge ensues; Fact-checking GOP claims on immigrants; Water contamination a concern in Midwest flood aftermath.

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President Joe Biden drops his 2024 re-election bid. He's endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to take his spot on the ticket, and election experts say they see benefits to this decision.

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It's grass-cutting season and with it, rural lawn mower races, Montana's drive-thru blood project is easing shortages, rural Americans spend more on food when transportation costs are tallied, and a lack of good childcare is thwarting rural business owners.

Clock ticking for WA bill allowing unemployment for striking workers

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Friday, March 1, 2024   

A bill in Olympia would open access to unemployment while workers are on strike, but time is running out for lawmakers to pass the legislation.

House Bill 1893 has made its way through the House but has to get approval from the Senate by the end of today. David Groves, communications director for the Washington State Labor Council, said the bill would help level the playing field at the bargaining table.

"Currently, employers can adopt a starve-them-out strategy where they refuse to negotiate in good faith," he said, "because they know that their workers, especially when they earn low wages, aren't in a position to go without a paycheck."

The legislation would allow workers to access unemployment after two weeks on strike for a maximum of four weeks. Opponents have said it would cost the state too much and could incentivize workers to strike. Last year was the most active year for labor activity and strikes in more than two decades.

Groves said employers have too much control in bargaining.

"This bill will promote good-faith bargaining because it will be a real possibility that workers could withhold their labor and go on strike," he said, "and that will give them the bargaining power they need to get a decent agreement and to get better wages and working conditions."

Maine, New Jersey and New York allow access to unemployment for striking workers.

Washington's legislative session is scheduled to adjourn next Thursday.


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Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at a political event in Grand Rapids, Mich., in early 2024. (The White House/Wikimedia Commons)

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