Press Statement

Statement: Proposal to protect workers, modernize unemployment insurance in response to AI disruption

10. 23. 2026

Statement from Becky Chao of Economic Security Project Action on the Stability and Opportunity for Workers Act

Today, Senator Ron Wyden released new proposals to help American workers weather potential harms, such as job displacement, caused by the rise of AI. Becky Chao, Director of Policy & Research, Economic Security Project Action, issued the following statement:

“Unemployment insurance gives working people an essential lifeline during job disruptions. We’re grateful to Senator Wyden for proposing this long-overdue modernization to our UI system. Cuts to this safety net program have reduced the effectiveness of this lifeline, and potential AI-driven job loss and displacement threatens economic security further. Policymakers should act now to put policies in place to support workers no matter the ultimate outcome of AI’s economic impact. Senator Wyden’s proposal will create more stability for workers and their families by setting a baseline for minimum benefits across states, providing income support while workers retrain, and maintaining eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit during transition times.”