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California lawmakers vote to give striking workers unemployment benefits despite low funds

Striking workers in California are one step closer to receiving state-funded financial help after a key vote Monday afternoon. The California Assembly voted 53-14 to give employees on strike access to state unemployment insurance benefits. The measure still needs the approval of the Senate labor committee, and then it must pass the Senate floor on a concurrence vote before it goes to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk.

“Let’s not take our concerns about EDD, about our funds, out on people who need the help right now,” said Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale).