British Petroleum’s recent actions following the lockout of over 800 workers have intensified the need for an Indiana bill that would ensure unemployment benefits for locked-out workers, as asserted by one of the bill’s authors. The company has lodged an appeal with the state to deny already-approved unemployment claims, as confirmed by Indiana Senator Rodney Pol, D-Portage, during a press event at USW Local 7-1 headquarters in Whiting.

A further issue raised is the demand by BP for workers receiving unemployment benefits or those who have exhausted them to repay $335 per week. Signs were held up by United Steelworkers Local 7-1 members during the press conference on October 2, 2026, highlighting proposed legislation that allows locked-out workers to gather unemployment insurance.

Present state law necessitates the union and employer to deplete all negotiations and reach an impasse before workers can claim UI, according to Indiana Democrats spokesman Sam Barloga. The new legislation clarifies that locked-out workers can obtain UI benefits on the day of the lockout.

No response was provided by BP representatives when asked for comment by press time. Pol stated that the bill was crafted following contact with Governor Mike Braun’s office immediately after the lockout to assure protection for BP workers. He affirmed that progress will be made with the bill during the January legislative session.

Pol remarked on the situation, considering the ongoing problems like record-high foreclosures and low homebuyers, and accused a foreign company of depriving 800 families of sustenance. “We genuinely believe these workers deserve to support their families,” Pol stated.

State Representative Chuck Moseley, D-Portage, noted the hardship of the lockout on his family, particularly due to his grandson being among those affected. Moseley criticized the foreign company’s actions causing distress to workers who merely wish to work, terming it an indignity.

Scott Houldieson, Democratic contender for District 1’s State Senate seat, denounced BP’s move as “economic terrorism.” He pointed out that union employees at Ford Motor Company in Illinois receive double the unemployment benefits compared to Indiana. He emphasized the strength found in collective support.

USW Local 7-1 president Eric Schultz addressed questions regarding extending unemployment benefits and assured that a legal team is addressing the matter. Concerns were raised about repayments when the lockout ends, to which Pol assured protections would be put in place.

Cynthia Gil shared an emotional recount of the day her husband, John Miranda, secured a job at BP, describing it as a turning point for their family. Gil conveyed her frustration with the situation, questioning when it would conclude.

Moseley urged the group to contact Governor Braun and seek assurance the unemployment benefits would remain intact.