Many small businesses currently struggle to retain qualified workers, and unemployment benefits for striking workers provide incentives to continue labor disputes. The Securing Help for Involuntary Employment Loss and Displacement (SHIELD) Act was introduced by Indiana Representative Rudy Yakym to help small businesses retain qualified workers. NFIB Principal of Federal Government Relations, Tyler Dever, sent a letter of support to Congress. 

The SHIELD Act protects small businesses by eliminating that incentive for workers to walk off the job without consequences and restoring balance back to the labor markets. According to the 2024 NFIB Problems and Priorities Survey, more than 27% of small businesses owners feel that locating qualified employees is a critical problem. 

Unemployment benefits were intended to provide temporary relief for workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, not to serve as leverage in labor negotiations. The abuse of unemployment benefits by striking workers disproportionately affects small businesses who are much more sensitive to fluctuating labor markets.  

NFIB strongly urges Congress to pass this legislation and continue to protect small businesses in their pursuit of a fair labor market. Read the full letter of support for more information.