MA H2168

Amends Section 25 of Chapter 151A to limit the unemployment benefits waiting period to 30 days for workers unemployed due to labor disputes, with the waiting period waived entirely if the employer hires permanent replacement workers

Eliminates waiting periods and disqualifications when the labor dispute is caused by employer failure to comply with employment agreements, collective bargaining contracts, or state/federal labor laws

Protects workers from benefit denial during employer lockouts if employees remain ready and willing to work under existing contract terms, unless the employer proves the lockout responds to repeated substantial property damage or threats approved by union leadership

Clarifies that payment of regular union dues or assessments does not constitute participation in or financing of a labor dispute for benefit eligibility purposes

Requires employers to certify in writing that workers can return to their positions after a dispute; if return is denied, workers may recover benefits lost during the 30-day waiting period