[trosi]

I don't know how it works in the US (and I assume it might be different state by state), but in many countries in Europe this is already the case.

For example: if you get fired today you are entitled to a benefit if you have worked at least X months out of the last Y months. X and Y must be chosen carefully of course.

[dbspin]

Hard disagree - your entitlement should be based on need, not social status. So your previous employment shouldn't factor in at all.