Labor Unions Paralyzing France: 'We've Been Taken Hostage'

PARIS – A strike against government attempts at welfare reform is slowly paralyzing France. It's a reality check for U.S. supporters of presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders.

French drivers are hunting for gasoline and waiting in long lines to get it because of strikes and blockades at the nation's fuel refineries.

The government has had to cut into fuel reserves to deal with gasoline shortages caused by strikes and protests over a bill that would trim employment protections.

One driver told CBN News, "From last night until 1 o'clock in the morning, I searched with my wife for a gas station, and all were empty or closed." He says the French people have been "totally taken hostage."

Labor unions are targeting the nation's gas supplies, railroads and electricity network as they try to push the government to drop labor reform devised to make France more globally competitive by extending the work week and making layoffs easier. Opponents say it will enrich company bosses, but it won't create the jobs it promises.

Supporters of Bernie Sanders should pay close attention because France is trying to rid itself of the kind of socialism Sanders wants to bring to America.

French strikes can turn violent, with burning barricades, tear gas and street fighting.

Nevertheless, the French government says it won't back down. It has sent riot police to uproot protesters blocking fuel depots and authorized the use of reserves to resupply gas stations that have run dry.

France reportedly has about three months of fuel reserves left.