Boeing strikers encouraged to file for jobless pay

SEATTLE -- Union leaders say striking Boeing workers should apply for unemployment compensation but concede they have little chance of collecting.

The Machinists union strike has shut down Chicago-based Boeing's aircraft assembly plants since September 6th.

The union has filed an unfair labor practice complaint, accusing Boeing of improperly questioning workers about parts of a contract proposal. Boeing also is accused of giving the union misleading information.

If the National Labor Relations Board upholds that complaint, union leaders say there's a "slim" chance that members who have filed for jobless pay might be able to collect. A union spokeswoman says the claims will likely be denied at first, but a favorable NLRB ruling could change that on appeal.