British Petroleum’s recent actions following the lockout of more than 800 workers in March have underscored the importance of a bill proposed by two Indiana General Assembly members. This legislation seeks to ensure unemployment benefits for locked-out workers, according to one of its authors. The company has filed an appeal with the state to deny unemployment claims that have already been approved, Indiana Senator Rodney Pol, D-Portage, told the Post-Tribune on Friday after a press conference at USW Local 7-1 headquarters in Whiting.
The appeal not only challenges the unemployment claims but also seeks repayment from employees already receiving benefits. These workers currently receive $335 weekly. United Steelworkers Local 7-1 members displayed signs during the press conference on October 2, 2026, where the proposed legislation allowing locked-out workers to collect unemployment insurance was announced. Under current state laws, eligibility for unemployment insurance requires that both the union and employer exhaust all bargaining options and reach an impasse, according to Indiana Democrats spokesman Sam Barloga.
The new legislation clarifies that locked-out workers are entitled to UI benefits starting the day of the lockout. Representatives for BP did not provide comments by press time. Senator Pol said the bill was drafted following immediate contacts with Governor Mike Braun’s office after the lockout, aiming to protect affected BP workers. In the press conference, Pol reiterated that the legislation will move forward in the January legislative session. “We’re witnessing record-high foreclosures and record-low homebuyers,” Pol stated. “This policy ensures workers can provide for their families.”
State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage, emphasized the hardship faced by his family, noting that his grandson is among the locked-out workers. “A foreign company causing pain to American working families is not something I support,” Moseley remarked. Scott Houldieson, a Democratic candidate for District 1’s State Senate seat, criticized BP’s actions as “economic terrorism.” He noted that, as a union employee for Ford Motor Company in Illinois, his benefits are double those provided in Indiana when laid off.
Houldieson expressed support for the legislation, stating, “We’re more powerful when we stand together.” During the conference, USW Local 7-1 President Eric Schultz responded to inquiries from member Angel Colon about extending unemployment benefits. Schultz assured that a legal team is working to ensure workers will not have to repay received benefits once the lockout concludes. “We’ll make sure that doesn’t happen,” Pol affirmed.
Cynthia Gil, from Schererville, shared an emotional account of her husband John Miranda’s experience after securing a job at BP two decades ago. She recalled his dedication, which stretched beyond the typical work hours. “When will this end?” she questioned, also voicing concern over the governor’s stance. In response, Moseley urged the group to contact Governor Braun, requesting his promise to protect their unemployment benefits.
Michelle L. Quinn reports for the Post-Tribune.