TWU LOCAL 291Delivering ExcellencePutting People FirstSetting New StandardsImproving PerformanceBeing AccountableDaily
TWUDelivering ExcellencePutting People FirstSetting New StandardsImprovingDailyBeing AccountableLOCAL 291
Miami-Dade battles COVID ‘misinformation’ with vaccine push
Transit workers and school employees are being hit hard with virus
Miami-Dade battles COVID ‘misinformation’ with vaccine push
Transit workers and school employees are being hit hard with virus
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Officials say over 125 Miami-Dade transit employees are not working right now because they’re sick with COVID-19.
Superintendent Alberto Carvalho says they are also seeing people who work for the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system lose their lives because of the aggressive delta variant.
In light of that, a pop-up vaccination event was held Tuesday at Lillie C. Evans K-8 in Northwest Miami-Dade.
Local leaders say a big challenge is vaccine hesitancy among frontline workers.
“It’s a misinformation issue,” Carvalho said. “Particularly in specific communities who have historically been hesitant, reasonably so. ... Right now we need to put our differences aside and prioritize our workforce and students and move forward.”
Transit employee Michael Williams died over the weekend, and more than a dozen Miami-Dade school employees and bus workers died in the past few weeks.
The union believes none were vaccinated.
“Across all of our labor unions, we are seeing a high number of African Americans who are unvaccinated and are passing away,” said Sonia Diaz, a spokeswoman for the transportation workers’ labor union. “Just in the transportation workers’ labor union, we’ve seen six.”
The head of the nurses’ union at Jackson Memorial Hospital says vaccines are still highly effective and the spike in hospital stays is finally easing
But there are still cases rattling families.
Carvalho said that on Wednesday the school board will vote on possibly giving a $275 stipend to any employee who elects to get vaccinated or can prove they already have. A similar incentive is already in place in Broward County.
The pop-up vaccination site is open until 5 p.m. Tuesday but there are many other places to get COVID-19 vaccines in South Florida. Click here for more information.
Copyright 2021 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
TWU Executive Committee
TWU Executive Committee
Monique Robinson
Secretary Treasurer
Latonya Redmond
Recording Secretary
TWU Local 291 sadly mourns the loss of our dearly beloved brother Michael Williams....Gone too soon!
TWU Local 291 sadly mourns the loss of our dearly beloved brother Michael Williams....Gone too soon!
How to help Haitians after 7.2 magnitude earthquake
How to help Haitians after 7.2 magnitude earthquake
How to help Haitians after 7.2 magnitude earthquake
WorldA deadly earthquake in Haiti over the weekend has dealt another devastating blow to the nation mired in political crisis.
At least 1,419 people have died and some 6,000 are injured following the earthquake. Tens of thousands more are displaced — officials say over 7,000 homes were destroyed and 5,000 are damaged. In some places, rescue efforts have been affected by landslides cutting off roads. Tropical Storm Grace hit the southwestern part of the country — where the earthquake struck the hardest — with heavy rainfall Monday, forcing the Haitian government to temporarily pause its response.
Saturday’s earthquake was centered in Nippes, 78 miles west of Port-au-Prince but could be felt as far away as Jamaica. The U.S. Geological Survey said aftershocks could continue for weeks.
Chronic poverty, widespread gang violence and political instability will complicate the nation’s ability to recover from the latest disaster. The government is particularly fragile after Haitian President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in July. The country is immersed in political turmoil as none of the suspects detained for the assassination have been taken to court, over a month after the president was killed–raising questions about how the country can come together in times of political and natural crises.
Like the rest of the world, Haiti is also still in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. Vaccinations for COVID-19 had begun less than two weeks before when the earthquake struck. Officially, Haiti has seen more than 20,500 COVID-19 cases and 570 deaths according to Johns Hopkins University, but a lack of robust testing suggests that the true number is far higher.
Saturday’s earthquake was more powerful than the 2010 earthquake, which killed an estimated 230,000 people and injured 300,000. Recovery efforts for the 2010 earthquake took years, and investigations have raised whether victims ever received much of the money raised.
As the crises across Haiti compound, here are some ideas for how to help:
- UNICEF is working with the government and humanitarian aid groups to help vulnerable children and families. Medical kits to support 30,000 people have already been delivered to the Les Cayes port and medical, health and sanitation supplies are on the way. Donate here to help support that effort.
- Donate to Project HOPE, a nonprofit that is sending out an emergency response team to help the country.
- Humanity and Inclusion has worked in Haiti since 2008 responding to natural disasters and are launching efforts specifically in rehabilitation, mental health and psychological needs in response to the earthquake. Donate to them here.
- Hope for Haiti has a stockpile of emergency kits ready to distribute to individuals and families. The organization consists of Haitian doctors, nurses and program managers. Donations can be made through Hope for Haiti’s website. The nonprofit is also accepting cryptocurrency donations.
- Save the Children is accepting donations to continue their work with children and families in Haiti and help distribute aid.
- World Vision has pre-prepared supplies to provide immediate humanitarian aid to 6,000 people. Donate here.
- The Greater Miami Jewish Federation established a relief fund to help victims of the earthquake. Donate on their website, or for more information on donating, call 305-576-4000.
- The United Way and the Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald have activated Operation Helping Hands to help victims of the Haiti earthquake. Donate through their website or call 800-226-3320.
- Catholic Relief Services is working with local partners to coordinate the delivery of life-saving supplies, including tarps, blankets, medical supplies, food, and clean water. You can donate to relief efforts for Haiti here.
- American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is providing medical supplies to hospitals and residents. Donate here.
- Church World Service is providing housing reconstruction, trauma recovery support and water infrastructure repairs in the municipality of Pestel. Donate on their website.
March On for Voting Rights Saturday, August 28, 10:00 AM.
March On for Voting Rights Saturday, 08/28/2021 10AM.
Your vote is your voice.
Your vote is your voice.
Don’t let them take it away.
Don’t let them take it away.
Since January, 48 states have introduced 389 bills that amount to shameful, outright voter suppression, and many have already become law. These laws suppress voting methods that enrich our democracy and lead to high turnout: banning ballot drop boxes and mail-in voting, reducing early voting days and hours, restricting who can get a mail-in ballot, prohibiting officials from promoting the use of of mail-in ballots even when voters qualify, even criminalizing the distribution of water to voters waiting in the long lines these laws create.
Racist, anti-democratic voter suppression laws amount to rigging the game. But in America, elections are not a game—and lives depend on their outcomes.
That’s why, on August 28, 2021, we’re marching on Washington, Atlanta, Miami, Houston, Phoenix and cities across America.
Union Benefit Planners
Union Benefit Planners
Official TWU Local 291 Election Results August 08, 2021
Official TWU Local 291 Election Results August 08, 2021
Votes Response
- 55l Jeffery W Mitchell
- 167 Fausto Manzo
Votes Response
- 679 Joseph D'Elia
Votes Response
- 467 Monique Hewitt-Robinson
- 248 Cassandra Gilbert
Votes Response
- 388 Latonya Redmond
- 325 Jeseph Y Esquilin
Votes Response
- 434 Lawrence Gunn
- 433 Michael A Williams
- 352 Andr'e Brown
- 3O4 Angela Þowtin
- 28O Shawntrel Jackson
- 195 Juan C Chambrot
- 183 April D'Elia
- 165 Selma Wade
- 122 Selevena Creary
Votes Response
- 364 Kevin Craig
- 197 Erlin C Sawyer II
Votes Response
- 535 Jerome Revere
Votes Response
- 66 James Ê Birkins Jr
- 53 Andrea Bassa
- 45 Jermaine Kemp
- 31 Maurice Dixon
Votes Response
- 1O5 Marc A Levros
Votes Response
- 95 Jesus J Guerrero
Votes Response
- 48 Andrew Alclndor
Votes Response
- 46 Antonio L. Gonzalez III
Votes Response
- Richard Rodriguez
Votes Response
- 47 Calvin Stewart
#STOPTHESTEAL | The Gonzalez Bros Bankroll Miami-Dade Commissioners to Highjack Transit
#STOPTHESTEAL | The Gonzalez Bros Bankroll Miami-Dade Commissioners to Highjack Transit
This is being done at the detriment of reliable public transportation service as well as the riders’ safety and well-being. We are here to say, STOP THE STEAL.
SAVE THE DATE: TWU PRO Act Digital Day of Action
Wednesday, July 21
SAVE THE DATE: TWU PRO Act Digital Day of Action
Wednesday, July 21
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Hello,
On Wednesday, July 21, the TWU is hosting a Digital Day of Action to tell our Senators to pass the PRO Act.
The House of Representatives passed the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act) on March 9 and President Biden is ready to sign it into law if it gets through the Senate to his desk. Tell your senators to vote YES on the PRO Act. |
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Our labor laws are outdated and no longer protect our right to form and join unions. The PRO Act is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression. The PRO Act will:
Stronger unions mean higher wages, safer working conditions and dignity for all people who work.
Passing the PRO Act will be our first step in getting there. Join us for our Digital Day of Action on Wednesday, July 21 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
In Solidarity,
The TWU |
Impact Roundtable Series
United Way Flyer July 07 2021
United Way Flyer July 07 2021
Impact Roundtable Series
United Way Flyer - Impact Roundtable Series
July 7, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
July 7, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Nominating Petitions - Dates and Deadlines
Nominating Petitions - Dates and Deadlines
Local 291 Officers and Section Officers shall be elected in a secret electronic ballot election conducted
by TrueBallot beginning August 6, 2021 at 7:00 a.m. through August 8, 2021 at 7:00 a.m., for a term of
three (3) years, which will begin September 1, 2021. Only a Transportation member shall be eligible to
be a candidate or to vote for Transportation Vice President(s) or any Section Officers in Transportation,
only a Maintenance member shall be eligible to be a candidate or to vote for Maintenance Vice
President(s) or any Section Officer in Maintenance, and only a Rail member shall be eligible to be a
candidate or to vote for Rail Vice President(s) or any Section Officer in Rail.
Download Notice of Election; Election Rules for details.
July 6, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Nominating Petitions - Dates and Deadlines
Local 291 Officers and Section Officers shall be elected in a secret electronic ballot election conducted
by TrueBallot beginning August 6, 2021 at 7:00 a.m. through August 8, 2021 at 7:00 a.m., for a term of
three (3) years, which will begin September 1, 2021. Only a Transportation member shall be eligible to
be a candidate or to vote for Transportation Vice President(s) or any Section Officers in Transportation,
only a Maintenance member shall be eligible to be a candidate or to vote for Maintenance Vice
President(s) or any Section Officer in Maintenance, and only a Rail member shall be eligible to be a
candidate or to vote for Rail Vice President(s) or any Section Officer in Rail.
Download Notice of Election; Election Rules for details.
July 6, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Donate to The Surfside Hardship Fund
Donate to The Surfside Hardship Fund
The Coral Gables Community Foundation, the Miami Foundation, and the Key Biscayne Community Foundation are asking Miami-Dade County residents to contribute to The Surfside Hardship Fund.
Donors can use PayPal or credit cards.
Click Here To Be Taken To The Page.
TWU Local 291, AFL-CIO - Notice of Election; Election Rules
TWU Local 291, AFL-CIO Notice of Election; Election Rules
Local 291 Officers and Section Officers shall be elected in a secret electronic ballot election conducted
by TrueBallot beginning August 6, 2021 at 7:00 a.m. through August 8, 2021 at 7:00 a.m., for a term of
three (3) years, which will begin September 1, 2021. Only a Transportation member shall be eligible to
be a candidate or to vote for Transportation Vice President(s) or any Section Officers in Transportation,
only a Maintenance member shall be eligible to be a candidate or to vote for Maintenance Vice
President(s) or any Section Officer in Maintenance, and only a Rail member shall be eligible to be a
candidate or to vote for Rail Vice President(s) or any Section Officer in Rail.
Download Notice of Election; Election Rules for details.
June 22, 2021
Please note: This is a 2 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Watch "2021 Legislative Update Week 9: Game Over" on YouTube
Watch "2021 Legislative Update Week 9: Game Over" on YouTube
Governmental & Community Updates (5/6)
Governmental & Community Updates (5/6)
1. Update following Governor DeSantis's Executive Order 21-102 -- Mayor Levine Cava released the following update clarifying County COVID policy and guidelines, in response to Governor DeSantis's Executive Order 21-102:
"We are still in a public health emergency and our economy has not fully rebounded from crisis. Miami-Dade County will continue to require key COVID safety precautions including masking, distancing, and disinfecting at all County spaces, including libraries, County parks, and County buildings. A federal mask mandate remains in place for public transit, Miami International Airport, and PortMiami.
According to the Governor’s executive order, local businesses are no longer mandated to require COVID safety precautions including masking. However, I urge our business community to continue to keep the fundamentals in place – masking, distancing, disinfecting, and staying home when sick – to protect all our residents and visitors. And I've been encouraged by many businesses who are voluntarily choosing to keep these precautions in place for the safety of their employees and customers. I urge our community to continue using common sense to prevent the spread of the virus and to treat those around you, particularly in public spaces, with respect by keeping your mask on when around those outside your household.
The local state of emergency remains in place, and the County will continue to provide COVID relief and response services including vaccination, testing, and senior meals. Above all, I urge all our residents – if you haven’t already, get vaccinated. It is our best and only path forward out of the pandemic. Find the vaccination site nearest you and make a plan today to get the shot: miamidade.gov/vaccine."
2. COVID-19 vaccinations available at MIA starting May 10 -- As part of Miami-Dade County’s effort to make the COVID-19 vaccine more easily accessible to the County’s hospitality and tourism sector, Pfizer vaccines will be available at Miami International Airport to airport employees, their family and friends, and travelers who live or work in Florida, May 10-14, June 1-4, and June 7, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. MIA will have two vaccination sites during those dates and times:
1. Concourse D, 4th Floor Auditorium, upstairs from Door 1
2. Drive-through location: 75 Bus Road, Miami, FL 33102 (MIA taxi overflow lot)
Miami-Dade County offers a pre-registration system to expedite the vaccination process for eligible individuals who complete a one-time online registration or call 305-614-2014. Anyone who does not pre-register may have a longer wait at the vaccination site. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or a TTY user, you may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service) or email 311@miamidade.gov for assistance.
3. WASD Cares program launches to help those in need pay their water bills -- Miami-Dade County is launching a new community-wide effort to help those in need pay their water bills. The goal of WASD Cares is to collect $1 million to support those families who need it most. As funds become available, the Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD) will manage the program and open applications for the disbursement of funds. An announcement will be made at that time to inform the public about eligibility and how to apply. To give the gift of water, donate today to WASD Cares or learn more about eligibility requirements.
4. Helping hands wanted for Miami-Dade County Parks' Coastal Cleanup Days -- Be part of the solution to coastal pollution by pitching in for a Miami-Dade Parks’ coastal cleanup. Join our extended Coastal Cleanup series happening throughout the months of May, June and July 2021, at popular Miami-Dade coastal park, beach and marina locations. To participate, volunteers must first create a volunteer account online at Miami-Dade Parks’ Park Link. There, select the category “Volunteer Opportunities,” then select the sub-category “Park Service Day Volunteers” and view all the available coastal cleanup volunteer activities taking place in the next couple of months. For more information about these coastal cleanups and other volunteer opportunities available across the county park system visit www.iaminvolved.org or call Miami-Dade Parks’ Community & Volunteer Engagement Unit at 786-755-7939.
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
County Mobile Vaccination Site - Miami Executive Airport
County Mobile Vaccination Site - Miami Executive Airport
This information is being provided on behalf of the Miami-Dade Fire Department
Miami-Dade County will be deploying a Mobile Vaccination Site on Saturday, May 1st & will return on Saturday, May 22nd for second doses. Individuals can register for this site by calling 305-614-1622.
Where: Miami Executive Airport (12800 SW 145th Avenue, Miami, FL 33186)
When: May 1st & May 22nd
Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
What: Pfizer Vaccine
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
Call your senator and tell them to vote NO on SB 220!
Call your senator and tell them to vote NO on SB 220!
Click here to call your senator and tell them to vote NO on SB 220!
http://bit.ly/StopSB220
Recurring Msgs. Reply STOP to quit, HELP for info. Msg&DataRatesMayApply
Stand Up for Frontline Workers in Florida!
Stand Up for Frontline Workers in Florida!
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Dear Jeffery,
Please stand up for frontline workers in Florida by telling your elected officials to vote "no" on the following legislation that attacks public sector workers.
Click here to contact your State Senator and tell them to Vote "NO" on SB 1014!
Click here to contact your State House Representative and tell them to Vote "NO" on HB 835 & 947!
If we stand together shoulder-to-shoulder, working people will always win.
Thank you for your support. |
VWFLC Mission Today Call, Email, and Write your State Representatives and Senators on the following upcoming bills.
This is important!
VWFLC Mission Today Call, Email, and Write your State Representatives and Senators on the following upcoming bills.
This is important!
TODAY & TOMORROW’s VWFLC MISSION:
Call, Email, and Write your State Representatives and Senators on the following upcoming bills. This is important!
Tuesday, 2 PM-until: Session-House Floor: Bills on Special Order:
HB 997-Pub. Rec. and Meetings/Postsecondary Education Executive Search
(Secrecy Bill) OPPOSE See Legislative Brief:
https://drive.google.com/file/
Wednesday, 9 AM: Senate Rules Committee
SB 78-Dues & Uniform Assessments
(Union Busting Bill) OPPOSE See One-Pager:
https://drive.google.com/file/
SB 90-Election Administration
(Voter suppression Bill) OPPOSE See One-Pager:
https://drive.google.com/
SB 220-Public Records and Public Meetings
(Secrecy Bill) OPPOSE See Legislative Brief:
https://drive.google.com/file/
SB 1014-Employee Organizations
(Union Busting Bill) OPPOSE See Legislative Brief:
https://drive.google.com/file/
SB 7070-Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Institutions
(COVID-19 liability) OPPOSE See Legislative Brief:
https://drive.google.com/file/
PLEASE CALL & EMAIL your Representative and Senator today and tomorrow on each of these bills. *** Add the email of the their staff to emails or send staff a copy
Broward & Miami Dade are listed below.
Do both a call and an email on HB 997 to your Representative today.
Send separate emails on each of the Senate Bills to your State Senator, today and tomorrow. Call them once today on SB 78 & SB 1014 and Call them again tomorrow morning on SB 90, and then again tomorrow afternoon on SB 220 & SB 7070.
Broward
|
LastName |
FirstName |
Senate/House |
Party |
District |
Assistant 1 - STAFF |
Email - Legislator |
Assistant 1 Email |
District Phone |
Capitol Phone |
|
Williams |
Patricia H. |
House |
D |
92 |
Nadlie Charles |
(954) 202-3201 |
(850) 717-5092 |
||
|
LaMarca |
Chip |
House |
R |
93 |
Samantha Verner |
(954) 784-4531 |
(850) 717-5093 |
||
|
DuBose |
Bobby |
House |
D |
94 |
Ebony Pardo |
(954) 467-4206 |
(850) 717-5094 |
||
|
Omphroy |
Anika |
House |
D |
95 |
Varrol Bailey |
(954) 747-7933 |
(850) 717-5095 |
||
|
Hunschofsky |
Christine |
House |
D |
96 |
Lisa Librizzi |
(954) 956-5600 |
(850) 717-5096 |
||
|
Daley |
Dan |
House |
D |
97 |
Sarah Pariseau |
(954) 845-6005 |
(850) 717-5097 |
||
|
Gottlieb |
Michael |
House |
D |
98 |
Linda Segall |
(954) 655-5498 |
(850) 717-5098 |
||
|
Jenne |
Evan |
House |
D |
99 |
Kristina Pickens |
(954) 893-5000 |
(850) 717-5099 |
||
|
Geller |
Joseph |
House |
D |
100 |
Joel Ramos |
(954) 924-3708 |
(850) 717-5100 |
||
|
Woodson |
Marie |
House |
D |
101 |
Diane Randolph |
|
(850) 717-5101 |
||
|
Robinson |
Felicia Simone |
House |
D |
102 |
Shelia Robinson |
(305) 620-3700 |
(850) 717-5102 |
||
|
Fabricio |
Tom |
House |
R |
103 |
Nikita Mizgirev |
(305) 364-3064 |
(850) 717-5103 |
||
|
Bartleman |
Robin |
House |
D |
104 |
Nicholas Hessing |
(954) 668-3662 |
(850) 717-5104 |
||
|
Polsky |
Tina |
Senate |
D |
29 |
Daphne Fernandez |
(561) 443-8170 |
(850) 487-5029 |
||
|
Book |
Lauren |
Senate |
D |
32 |
Zoraida Druckman |
(954) 424-6674 |
(850) 487-5032 |
||
|
Thurston |
Perry |
Senate |
D |
33 |
Kirstie Clinton |
(954) 321-2705 |
(850) 487-5033 |
||
|
Farmer |
Gary |
Senate |
D |
34 |
Matthew Singer |
(954) 467-4227 |
(850) 487-5034 |
||
|
Jones |
Shevrin D. |
Senate |
D |
35 |
Miles Davis |
(850) 487-5035 |
Miami Dade
|
LastName |
FirstName |
Senate/House |
Party |
District |
|
Assistant 1 |
Assistant 1 Email |
District Phone |
Capitol Phone |
|
Woodson |
Marie |
House |
D |
101 |
Diane Randolph |
|
(850) 717-5101 |
||
|
Robinson |
Felicia Simone |
House |
D |
102 |
Shelia Robinson |
(305) 620-3700 |
(850) 717-5102 |
||
|
Fabricio |
Tom |
House |
R |
103 |
Nikita Mizgirev |
(305) 364-3064 |
(850) 717-5103 |
||
|
Bartleman |
Robin |
House |
D |
104 |
Nicholas Hessing |
(954) 668-3662 |
(850) 717-5104 |
||
|
Borrero |
David |
House |
R |
105 |
Marissa Amato |
(305) 222-4116 |
(850) 717-5105 |
||
|
Rommel |
Bob |
House |
R |
106 |
Priscilla Grannis |
(239) 417-6200 |
(850) 717-5106 |
||
|
Benjamin |
Christopher |
House |
D |
107 |
William Green |
(305) 654-7100 |
(850) 717-5107 |
||
|
Joseph |
Dotie |
House |
D |
108 |
Antione Fields |
(305) 892-4296 |
(850) 717-5108 |
||
|
Bush |
Dr. James |
House |
D |
109 |
Joyce Randall |
(305) 953-3086 |
(850) 717-5109 |
||
|
Rizo |
Alex |
House |
R |
110 |
Juan Porras |
(305) 364-4126 |
(850) 717-5110 |
||
|
Avila |
Bryan |
House |
R |
111 |
Carolina Castillo |
(305) 805-5127 |
(850) 717-5111 |
||
|
Duran |
Nicholas |
House |
D |
112 |
Yolanda Abrams |
(305) 860-7119 |
(850) 717-5112 |
||
|
Grieco |
Michael |
House |
D |
113 |
Gabriela Navarro |
(305) 993-1905 |
(850) 717-5113 |
||
|
Busatta Cabrera |
Demi |
House |
R |
114 |
Samantha Garcia |
|
(850) 717-5114 |
||
|
Aloupis |
Vance A. |
House |
R |
115 |
Ryan Fernandez |
(305) 270-6530 |
(850) 717-5115 |
||
|
Perez |
Daniel |
House |
R |
116 |
Maria Lombard |
(305) 442-6800 |
(850) 717-5116 |
||
|
Chambliss |
Kevin |
House |
D |
117 |
Michelle Fernandez |
(305) 256-6300 |
(850) 717-5117 |
||
|
Rodriguez |
Anthony |
House |
R |
118 |
Jose Vazquez |
(305) 252-4352 |
(850) 717-5118 |
||
|
Fernandez-Barquin |
Juan |
House |
R |
119 |
Armando Munero |
(305) 222-4119 |
(850) 717-5119 |
||
|
Mooney |
James |
House |
R |
120 |
Nicolas Frevola |
|
(850) 717-5120 |
||
|
Jones |
Shevrin D. |
Senate |
D |
35 |
Miles Davis |
(850) 487-5035 |
|||
|
Diaz |
Manny |
Senate |
R |
36 |
Judith Ruiz |
(305) 364-3073 |
(850) 487-5036 |
||
|
Garcia |
Ileana |
Senate |
R |
37 |
Maria Chamorro |
(305) 442-6841 |
(850) 487-5037 |
||
|
Pizzo |
Jason W.B. |
Senate |
D |
38 |
Teri Cariota |
(305) 795-1205 |
(850) 487-5038 |
||
|
Rodriguez |
Ana Maria |
Senate |
R |
39 |
Lia Duran |
|
(850) 487-5039 |
||
|
Taddeo |
Annette |
Senate |
D |
40 |
Julian Santos |
(305) 596-3003 |
(850) 487-5040 |
April 13, 2021
Please note: This is a 10 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
April 13, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
March 13, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Week 7 WFLC - Union Bills up on Wednesday
CLICK TO CALL ACTIONS - Please reach out to your legislators..
Week 7 WFLC - Union Bills up on Wednesday
CLICK TO CALL ACTIONS - Please reach out to your legislators
Our Monday welcome meetings set the stage for the week on what legislation we are targeting and any actions we need to take, and therefore your attendance is vital.
Link here: Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/93937722430
------------------------------
Wednesday April 14 - 9 AM: Senate Rules Committee
- SB 78-Dues & Uniform Assessments - Click to Call Your Senator
- SB 90-Election Administration – Links to Actions
- SB 220-Public Records and Public Meetings (Secrecy Bill)
-SB 1014-Employee Organizations Click to Call Your Senator
https://feaweb.org/news/take-
-SB 7070-Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Institutions (COVID-19 liability)
Please reach out to your Senators – Phone Call – Email – Zoom Meeting.
One page information to discuss with your legislator is in WFLC Toolkit
Please reach out to Your House Member
https://www.myfloridahouse.
SB84 – Pension Bill has passed in the Senate we need to reach out to House members to discuss why this bad legislation should not be pushed through the house.
Click to Call Your House Member- HB 947 and 835
http://flaflcio.org/tell-your-
If you have any questions, please let me know also please follow us on Social Media and share content to help us get the word out.
https://www.facebook.com/
Wednesday Agenda WFLC Week 6
Wednesday Agenda WFLC Week 6
Wednesday Agenda
10AM: SESSION-Senate Floor:
· Bills on Third Reading: SB 264/HB 233-Higher Education/Postsecondary Ed
· Bills on Special Order: SB 84-Retirement
· SB 7018-Employer Contributions to Fund Retiree Benefits
CS/SB 84 (2021) Retirement
http://www.flsenate.gov/
Filed to this Bill:
117982 - Amendment filed by Senator Ausley
http://www.flsenate.gov/
2PM: SESSION-House Floor:
· Bills on Special Order: HB 15/SB 50-Taxation
(Big business bailout taxing workers to replenish the unemployment system)
Florida Channel
https://thefloridachannel.org/
Update on other Bills
CS/SB 78 (2021) Dues and Uniform Assessments
http://www.flsenate.gov/
SENATE - On Committee agenda-- Rules, 04/06/21, 9:30 am, 412 Knott Building --Temporarily Postponed
CS/CS/SB 90 (2021) Election Administration
http://www.flsenate.gov/
SENATE - On Committee agenda-- Rules, 04/06/21, 9:30 am, 412 Knott Building --Temporarily Postponed
CS/SB 1014 (2021) Employee Organizations
http://www.flsenate.gov/
SENATE - On Committee agenda-- Rules, 04/06/21, 9:30 am, 412 Knott Building --Temporarily Postponed
CS/SB 268 (2021) Preemption of Local Occupational Licensing
http://www.flsenate.gov/
SENATE - Favorable by- Rules; YEAS 11 NAYS 5 Filed to this Bill:
815936 - Amendment filed by Rules (Senator Farmer)
http://www.flsenate.gov/
CS/HB 1, 1st Eng. (2021) Combating Public Disorder
http://www.flsenate.gov/
SENATE - On Committee agenda-- Appropriations, 04/09/21, 8:30 am, 412 Knott Building
SENATE - On Committee agenda-- Appropriations, 04/10/21, 9:00 am, 412 Knott Building
Check out what I found on Union Strong!
2021 Legislative Update Weeks 1 & 2: Reality Bytes! Michael Newberger | March 24, 2021
Check out what I found on Union Strong!
2021 Legislative Update Weeks 1 & 2: Reality Bytes! Michael Newberger | March 24, 2021
Tell Your Senator to Pass the PRO Act!
Tell Your Senator to Pass the PRO Act!
https://actionnetwork.org/
Sponsored by
SEND A LETTER: Senator Garcia:
Stop The Attack On Educators. Vote NO on SB 1014!
Tell Your Senator to Pass the PRO Act!
HB 15 & SB 50*
Big Business Bail Outs for a Failed Unemployment System
HB 15 & SB 50*
Big Business Bail Outs for a Failed Unemployment System
Background: Florida’s Unemployment Insurance System (UI) is not a worker benefit program but a business insurance program. Nationally, UI was established after the Great Depression to make sure that unemployed workers maintained some spending power to keep businesses functioning during periods of mass layoffs.
Businesses pay premiums (now called taxes but really, they are insurance premiums) for this insurance trust fund. This fund is where UI benefits for unemployed workers come from. In 2011, due to an insolvent fund, businesses pushed to keep their premiums the same, rather than increasing as the law says. They did this by slashing benefits and eligibility so workers paid the price to keep these premiums low. That is what led to the crisis last year.
This time around, the fund is low and by law, business premiums are supposed to go up. In order to keep these premiums the same, they are going to start collecting taxes on internet sales (raising taxes on workers) and then put those newly generated dollars into the insurance trust fund to keep business premiums the same, just like 2011. Workers will be directly bailing out businesses and paying businesses insurance premiums FOR them!
• These bills are not new taxes in the strict sense, but they are new laws to require the collection of a tax already owed. WE DO NOT OPPOSE THIS, IT IS WHAT THEY ARE DOING WITH THE NEW MONEY COLLECTED, ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT $1 BILLION IN THE FIRST YEAR.
• The injustice here is that workers will be paying more taxes and that those taxes will be used exclusively to pay for an Unemployment Insurance system that has failed them miserably.
• If workers are paying more taxes for the UI system, shouldn’t some, or all, of that money be used to fix the broken UI system and not to bail out big business?
• It is big businesses’ responsibility to pay for unemployment, why is it fair to shift that responsibility to working families? Especially when the majority of unemployed workers never received a single penny from the UI system last year…or now!
It will be very difficult to stop this bill in entirely. What we want to do is get the word out that that it is wrong to force workers to pay for a failed Unemployment Insurance system that is not being fixed. We hope to generate noise to slow the process a bit and let us work to improve the situation.
We talk about raising taxes to get attention but the focus must shift to a message of using that funding to bailout big businesses. Here are some slogan ideas as requested.
Taxes for Worker Benefits – Not Big Business Bailouts
Take Care of Workers First
Workers Suffering – Taxes for Us, not Big Business Bailouts
Legislature Raising Our Taxes – Shouldn’t We Get Some Help?
Unemployment Has Failed Us – Why Must We Pay for it?
No Tax Hikes on Families for Big Busines Bailouts
We Need Unemployment Reform Now
Big Business Pay Your Fair Share
They are saying this is about protecting small businesses, but this is about economies of scale. This is about shielding companies with thousands of employees from paying their fair share for the Unemployment System.
March 15, 2021
Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
The Anti Florida Retirement System Bill
The Anti Florida Retirement System Bill
The Anti Florida Retirement System Bill
March 13, 2021Please note: This is a 1 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Summary of the American Rescue Plan Act (H.R. 1319)
Summary of the American Rescue Plan Act (H.R. 1319)
Public Health.
Provides $48.3 billion for testing, contact tracing and personal protective equipment (PPE); $7.5 billion for vaccine distribution; and $5.2 billion for procurement of vaccines and supplies. Provides $10 billion to expand domestic production of PPE, vaccines and medical supplies under the Defense Production Act.
Workplace Safety.
Provides $200 million for pandemic-related worker protection activities at the Labor Department, half of which would go to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to support OSHA enforcement and worker training in high-risk sectors such as meat processing, health care, correctional facilities and agriculture.
Relief for State and Local Governments.
Provides $350 billion in aid to state, local, tribal and territorial governments to help deal with the budgetary impact of the pandemic, including $195.3 billion for states and Washington, D.C.; $130.2 billion for local governments; $20 billion for tribal governments; and $4.5 billion for U.S. territories.
Education.
Provides $125 billion in state grants to help local educational authorities reopen K-12 public schools safely, address instruction loss and support students as they recover from the effects of the pandemic. Provides $39.6 billion to colleges and universities and their students, at least half of which must be spent on emergency financial aid grants.
Direct Payments.
Provides $1,400 in direct payments to individuals making less than $75,000 and married couples making under $150,000, and for dependents claimed on federal tax returns.
Unemployment Benefits.
Extends pandemic-related unemployment assistance that was set to expire on March 14, including the current $300 supplement to unemployment benefits (called “Pandemic Unemployment Compensation”), for another six months through Sept. 6. Provides that the first $10,200 of unemployment benefits received by taxpayers making less than $150,000 will not be subject to federal taxation.
Relief for Multiemployer Pensions.
Provides about $86 billion in financial assistance to struggling multiemployer pension plans, which the plans will not have to repay, to cover all benefits due through plan year 2051, with no cuts to accrued benefits.
Full COBRA Subsidies.
Subsidizes 100% of health care premiums of COBRA-eligible individuals who lose their job or had reduced hours, who will not have to pay any premiums, for six months. The employer or health plan can claim a refundable tax credit against their Medicare payroll tax liability for the cost of the premiums.
Airline and Aerospace Payroll Support.
Provides $15 billion for the wages and benefits of employees of airlines and contractors in the airline industry, on terms similar to airline payroll support in previous legislation: no layoffs or pay cuts through Sept. 30 or whenever the assistance is exhausted, whichever is later, and the continuation of current restrictions on stock buybacks, dividend payments and executive pay. Provides another $3 billion to create a payroll support program for aviation manufacturers.
Transportation.
Provides $30.4 billion for grants to transit agencies, which can be used for operating expenses, including payroll costs and PPE, and $1.7 billion for Amtrak in fiscal year 2021, including funding to recall furloughed workers and restore the frequency of long-distance routes.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
Extends eligibility for the PPP forgivable loan program to more tax-exempt groups, including 501(c)(5) labor organizations. Creates a new $28.6 billion grant program for restaurants.
Child Tax Credit.
Reduces child poverty by expanding the child tax credit through 2021, increasing the maximum credit to $3,600 for each child younger than 6 and $3,000 for other children, and making the credit fully refundable.
Child Care. Expands the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to $4,000 per child or $8,000 for two or more children, and makes the credit fully refundable. Provides $39 billion for child care, including $15 billion in grants to states to help low-income families afford child care and help essential workers regardless of their income and $24 billion for state grants to child care providers.
Federal Employee Leave.
Provides $570 million to create an Emergency Federal Employee Leave Fund to provide up to 15 weeks of emergency paid leave for civilian employees and postal workers, including those who have COVID-19, who are caring for someone with COVID-19, are looking after children during virtual classes, or are obtaining a COVID-19 vaccine. Provides $13 million for an Emergency TSA Employee Leave Fund and $9 million for an Emergency FAA Employee Leave Fund.
Paid Sick Leave and Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credits.
Extends current tax credits through September 2021 and expands eligibility to include state and local governments. Employee Retention Tax Credit. Extends the current tax credit through Dec. 31, 2021, and increases the percentage of wages covered for severely distressed businesses.
Earned Income Tax Credit.
Expands the earned income tax credit for taxpayers without children for 2021 by increasing both the credit percentage and phaseout thresholds.
Veterans.
Provides $386 million to create a rapid retraining program for veterans who are unemployed because of the pandemic.
Housing.
Provides $21.6 billion for emergency rental assistance to prevent evictions and $10 billion to help homeowners avoid foreclosure; $5 billion for emergency public housing vouchers; and $5 billion to address homelessness.
Nutrition Assistance.
Extends a 15% increase to monthly benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program through Sept. 30, 2021.
March 11, 2021
Please note: This is a 3 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
I am sharing 'NPPC Report' with you
I am sharing 'NPPC Report' with you
This report explores the potential impact states will face should lawmakers decide to convert new public employees from a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution 401(k) retirement plan as a budget-saving measure.
This report seeks to answer the following questions:
● Does converting a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution plan impact the overall cost to the state?
● What are the consequences of converting a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution plan?
● Does conversion to a defined-contribution plan impact recruitment and retention of public employees?
March 09, 2021
Please note: This is a 14 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
This report explores the potential impact states will face should lawmakers decide to convert new public employees from a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution 401(k) retirement plan as a budget-saving measure.
This report seeks to answer the following questions:
● Does converting a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution plan impact the overall cost to the state?
● What are the consequences of converting a defined-benefit pension plan to a defined-contribution plan?
● Does conversion to a defined-contribution plan impact recruitment and retention of public employees?
March 09, 2021
Please note: This is a 14 page document.
Please See >>> at top right for options.
Make The Call To Protect Workers' Rights.
HB 947 and HB 835 would infringe on our frontline workers' right to join or remain in their union.
Click here to call your representative and tell them to vote NO on HB 947 and HB 835!
http://bit.ly/
Recurring Msgs. Reply STOP to quit, HELP for info. Msg & Data Rates May Apply
Make The Call To Protect Workers' Rights.
HB 947 and HB 835 would infringe on our frontline workers' right to join or remain in their union.
Click here to call your representative and tell them to vote NO on HB 947 and HB 835!
http://bit.ly/
Recurring Msgs. Reply STOP to quit, HELP for info. Msg & Data Rates May Apply
We want to hear from you
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We want to hear from you
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Florida's Legislative Session begins tomorrow, March 2nd, and union-busting is already on the agenda for some in the Florida Senate. Senate Bill 78, Dues and Uniform Assessments, has already passed its first two committees, and will be heard in the Senate Rules Committee, this Thursday, March 4th.
Last year, the working people of the Sunshine State helped shut down HB 1, which would have made the unionization process needlessly burdensome for Florida's public sector workers. SB 78 is yet another attempt to make organizing as difficult as possible for these front-line workers, in the middle of a global pandemic to boot. We've stopped this kind of legislation before. Join us as we do it again.
Union members statewide are calling their senators and telling them to vote NO on this assault on our right to unionize. Click here to be connected to your senator.
In solidarity,
Florida AFL-CIO |
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Florida's Legislative Session begins tomorrow, March 2nd, and union-busting is already on the agenda for some in the Florida Senate. Senate Bill 78, Dues and Uniform Assessments, has already passed its first two committees, and will be heard in the Senate Rules Committee, this Thursday, March 4th.
Last year, the working people of the Sunshine State helped shut down HB 1, which would have made the unionization process needlessly burdensome for Florida's public sector workers. SB 78 is yet another attempt to make organizing as difficult as possible for these front-line workers, in the middle of a global pandemic to boot. We've stopped this kind of legislation before. Join us as we do it again.
Union members statewide are calling their senators and telling them to vote NO on this assault on our right to unionize. Click here to be connected to your senator.
In solidarity,
Florida AFL-CIO |
Financial Planning Virtual Workshops
This information is being provided on behalf of the Group Benefits Administration, Human Resources Department
FYI, the Human Resources Department in conjunction with the Florida Retirement System (FRS), is providing virtual financial planning workshops. These online webinars will be interactive and will require the employee to enroll for the session they are interested in attending. From March 16, 2021 – March 30, 2021, multiple sessions will be provided on the Pension Plan and the Investment Plan to provide all employees with an understanding of the FRS. You must pre-register for the webinars via ZOOM to participate (refer to attached flyer to pre-register).
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3/16/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/16/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/18/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/18/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/23/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/23/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/24/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/24/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/25/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/25/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/30/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/30/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
Jennifer Walker, Chief
Human Resources Division
Department of Transportation and Public Works
701 N.W. 1st Court, 13th Floor
Miami, FL 33136
(786) 469-5089 (ofc)
Email: jjw@miamidade.gov
“It may not be our fault, but it is our problem”…DTPW HR
Financial Planning Virtual Workshops
This information is being provided on behalf of the Group Benefits Administration, Human Resources Department
FYI, the Human Resources Department in conjunction with the Florida Retirement System (FRS), is providing virtual financial planning workshops. These online webinars will be interactive and will require the employee to enroll for the session they are interested in attending. From March 16, 2021 – March 30, 2021, multiple sessions will be provided on the Pension Plan and the Investment Plan to provide all employees with an understanding of the FRS. You must pre-register for the webinars via ZOOM to participate (refer to attached flyer to pre-register).
|
3/16/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/16/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/18/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/18/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/23/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/23/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/24/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/24/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/25/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
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3/25/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/30/2021 |
10:00 AM |
Understanding the FRS Investment Plan (IP) |
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3/30/2021 |
2:00 PM |
Understanding Your Benefits Under the Pension Plan (PP) |
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
Jennifer Walker, Chief
Human Resources Division
Department of Transportation and Public Works
701 N.W. 1st Court, 13th Floor
Miami, FL 33136
(786) 469-5089 (ofc)
Email: jjw@miamidade.gov
“It may not be our fault, but it is our problem”…DTPW HR
Miami VA is offering COVID-19 vaccination for Veterans
who are ESSENTIAL FRONTLINE WORKERS
Also, if you need assistance with VA Healthcare or other VA Benefits please feel free to contact Maximo I. Alcocer,
Veterans Outreach Program Coordinator
at 305-575-7000 Ext 16034.
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
Jennifer Walker, Chief
Human Resources Division
Department of Transportation and Public Works
701 N.W. 1st Court, 13th Floor
Miami, FL 33136
(786) 469-5089 (ofc)
Email: jjw@miamidade.gov
“It may not be our fault, but it is our problem”…DTPW HR
Miami VA is offering COVID-19 vaccination for Veterans
who are ESSENTIAL FRONTLINE WORKERS
Also, if you need assistance with VA Healthcare or other VA Benefits please feel free to contact Maximo I. Alcocer,
Veterans Outreach Program Coordinator
at 305-575-7000 Ext 16034.
Wear Your Face Mask At All Times
Be safe, exercise social distancing, and wash your hands!
Jennifer Walker, Chief
Human Resources Division
Department of Transportation and Public Works
701 N.W. 1st Court, 13th Floor
Miami, FL 33136
(786) 469-5089 (ofc)
Email: jjw@miamidade.gov
“It may not be our fault, but it is our problem”…DTPW HR
FL AFL-CIO E-Messenger: Week of 2/12
FL AFL-CIO E-Messenger: Week of 2/12
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Good evening and welcome to this edition of the Florida AFL-CIO E-Messenger, your roundup of Labor news across the Sunshine State and the nation. Let’s dive in. |
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Virtual Working Families Lobby Corps: Your (Digital) Voice at the Capitol |
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We are less than a month away from the start of Florida's Legislative Session, and the attacks on Florida's working people have already begun in earnest. We have the power to fight back. Every year, citizen activists with the Working Families Lobby Corps make their voices heard and stand up for a better future for Florida's working people.
This year, Working Families Lobby Corps will be held digitally in order to keep members safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Florida AFL-CIO offices and building will remain closed throughout Legislative Session. Volunteers with the Virtual Working Families Lobby Corps will continue to be involved in Florida's democratic process from the safety of their own homes.
Governor DeSantis and his allies in the Legislature are using the COVID-19 pandemic to turbocharge legislation that would dramatically impact Florida's working families. Join us as we fight back! Click here to find out more about getting involved in this year's Virtual Working Families Lobby Corps. |
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IBEW 824 Continues their Fight for a Fair Contract |
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Photo Credit: Kyle Gawroriski |
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This past Super Bowl Sunday, IBEW 824 in the Tampa Bay area, held a masked and socially distanced, informational picket about their ongoing fight with Frontier Communications for a fair contract. |
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Photo Credit: Kyle Gawroriski |
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Hundreds of members, their families, and allies joined the picket last Sunday, across from Tampa's Raymond James Stadium. The event also included a plane flying a banner to raise awareness of Frontier Communications' unfair treatment of these essential workers. |
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Photo Credit: Kyle Gawroriski |
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Workers with Frontier have been on the frontlines working to provide internet access for those working from home and children learning virtually. Internet access has been absolutely essential throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Frontier has decided, in the middle of the pandemic, to gut workers' healthcare and eliminate 401(k)s and healthcare benefits for retirees. |
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Photo Credit: Kyle Gawroriski |
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Creative Loafing in Tampa has more on the event, and you can find out more about the contract negotiations at IBEW 824's website here. |
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Tampa: Join Us in Raising the B.A.R.! |
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This Thursday, February 18th, the Tampa City Council will hear an ordinance that would require 12 percent of work hours be set aside for registered apprenticeships on large public work projects. This would be a massive step in the right direction in training the next generation of skilled construction workers and providing good-paying jobs in the city of Tampa. If you live in the Tampa area, please take a second to lend your voice in support of this ordinance. If you are currently enrolled in a Florida Department of Education registered apprenticeship program or have completed one and would like to share your story in support, please respond to this e-mail. |
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Pensacola State College Faculty Association to Hold Protest Over Unsafe Conditions February 16th |
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Pensacola State College Faculty Association members and their allies will hold a car caravan ahead of the college's Board of Trustees meeting, Tuesday, February 16th at 3:45 P.M. CST. |
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Members are protesting unsafe working conditions that are putting both faculty and students at risk. If you are interested in joining, you can RSVP on the Facebook event page, located here: https://fb.me/e/20t7K0SNi, or e-mail stayingalivepsc@gmail.com. Solidarity! |
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Florida News: Florida Legislature Gears Up for a Tumultuous Legislative Session |
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Florida's Legislative Session is shaping up to be full of challenges for Florida's working people. Leadership in Tallahassee have already shown their plans for this session: an all-out assault on Florida's working families. Anti-worker bills have been fast-tracked to be passed as soon as possible, in the middle of a pandemic and economic collapse. |
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Senate Bill 78, Dues and Uniforms Assessments, is a particularly nasty example of this year's slate of legislation that seeks to strip away the rights of working families. Senate Bill 78 is yet another attempt by the Florida Legislature to prevent frontline workers in the public sector from organizing. |
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SB 78 is part of a national push by billionaire-funded anti-union think tanks to make the unionization process as heavy-handed as possible to discourage membership. If passed, the bill would put employers in charge of the unionization process, adding more needless red-tape and confusion. It would also prevent employees from automatically renewing their membership with their union and include wording meant to dissuade workers from joining on union authorization forms. The Florida Phoenix has more on SB 78 here. |
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We've lead the charge against these kinds of union-busting bills in the past, and we're doing it again. Click here to find out more about SB 78 and how to call your senator and tell them to vote no on this piece of legislation. Union busting is disgusting! |
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Above: Senator Ray Rodrigues, sponsor of SB 84. Source: Colin Hackley/Florida Politics |
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Florida's pension system is a huge driver for Florida's economy. Every dollar spent into the system generates $6. The system has an $18 billion dollar impact on our state economy and adds an estimated $2.7 billion dollars in tax revenue.
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Members of Working Families Lobby Corps protest SB 774 last year. While the bill was defeated, this year's SB 220 looks to continue its dubious legacy. |
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"If you don't succeed, try again" isn't always a good thing. Case in point, once again, legislation in the Senate is attempting to roll back Florida's best in the nation Sunshine Laws in the process of hiring university & college presidents. Florida's Sunshine Laws provide citizens with some of the most transparent governance in the nation. SB 220 would hide the process of choosing university & college presidents from the general public, running the risk of corruption and cronyism in selecting some of the most powerful unelected figures in the State of Florida.
If this all sounds familiar, that's because it's almost a carbon copy of legislation that (thankfully) failed last year, thanks in part to the work of Florida's Labor Movement. It's enough to make one feel like they're Bill Murray in Groundhog Day argues the Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board. |
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Senator Jeff Brandes, sponsor of SJR 854 (and SB 220, along with Senator Rodrigues.) Photo Credit: Florida Phoenix/Colin Hackley |
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Floridians overwhelmingly supported a constitutional amendment last election that would gradually raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026. Disappointingly, a new push in the Florida Senate, SJR 854, seeks to alter the will of the people. If passed, the resolution would put the move to a vote via constitutional amendment.
This would place a big asterisk on the $15 minimum wage, allowing businesses to pay "hard-to-hire" workers less. This would primarily affect workers under the age of 21 and returning citizens. The resolution has already caused controversy, and groups across the state are speaking out against it, including advocates for returning citizens. You can read more at the Orlando Sentinel. |
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Members of Unite Here 355 call for the state to fix our unemployment system last year. Unfortunately, the system is still failing. |
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In the meantime, Florida's unemployment system is continuing to fail out of work Floridians. It seems the Legislature has bigger priorities than the thousands of Floridians who are still yet to receive any benefits, or the ones struggling to get by on the meager ones the state does offer. The UK's The Guardian has more on the international laughingstock that is Florida's unemployment system. |
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National News: Organized Labor Mobilizes to Pass the PRO Act, This Year's Super Bowl is Brought to You by America's Unions, Nothing Says "I Love You" Like Union-Made Valentine's Gifts |
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The PRO Act, sweeping legislation that presents a path forward for America's working people, is once again up in the United States House of Representatives. Last year, the bill passed the House but was shot down by Mitch McConnell and his allies in the Senate. |
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America's unions are leading the fight for this crucial legislation. If passed, the bill would put the power to unionize back in the control of America's working people and fight back against years of attacks on our right to organize. You can find out more about the PRO Act and how to call your Representative here. |
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This year's Super Bowl, here in the Sunshine State in the author of this e-mail's hometown of Tampa, Florida, was brought to you by America's unions. Sorry to any Chiefs fans reading this. Go Bucs. |
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The AFL-CIO is celebrating Black History month by lifting up the stories of labor leaders who have made history and continue to make history every day. You can read today's profile here. |
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AFL-CIO President Emeritus John J. Sweeney has passed away. As AFL-CIO President, Sweeney led the Labor Movement into the 21st century through a commitment to organizing and social justice. You can read the AFL-CIO's In Memoriam statement here. |
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Reuters/Slate |
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Workers at an Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama, are leading a historic push to unionize. Amazon has been notoriously hostile to unions, despite near-constant attacks, workers at the warehouse have begun to vote on organizing. Slate has more on the fight. |
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This Valentine's Day, there's no better way to show your love than with high-quality, union-made gifts. You can find out more about union-made in America products here. |
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That wraps up this edition of the Florida AFL-CIO E-Messenger. Stay safe and solidarity!
Got any tips, actions, or messages you’d like to see in this email? Please email Michael Newberger at mnewberger@flaflcio.org. |
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Why workers need the Protecting the Right to Organize Act:
Why workers need the Protecting the Right to Organize Act:
How the PRO Act solves the problems in current law that thwart workers seeking union representation
Nearly half (48%) of all nonunion workers surveyed say they would vote for a union if given the opportunity—a roughly 50% higher share than when a similar survey was taken 40 years earlier. And the 65% of Americans who approve of labor unions is higher than it has been since the early 2000s, with young workers ages 18–34 the most supportive. But the share of workers represented by a union was just 12.1% in 2020. If so many workers want union representation, why don’t they have it? The fact is that our current labor law—which is supposed to protect the right of workers in the private sector to organize—actually makes it very difficult for workers to win union representation.Workers face multiple hurdles when they try to organize and employers have too much leeway to interfere with workers’ free choice. Employers have many legal ways to intimidate and coerce workers, and when employers resort to illegal tactics such as firing workers for organizing, they incur no monetary penalties.
[Related: PRO Act at a glance]
The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act addresses many of the major shortcomings with our current law. Passing the PRO Act would help restore workers’ ability to organize with their co-workers and negotiate for better pay, benefits, and fairness on the job. Passing the PRO Act would also promote greater racial economic justice because unions and collective bargaining help shrink the Black–white wage gap and bring greater fairness to the workplace.
Problems that the PRO Act addresses
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is supposed to protect the rights of private-sector workers to organize. But there are serious shortcomings in the current law—and in the operations of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) established to carry out key parts of the law. The weaknesses are exploited by anti-union employers and the union-busting consultants they hire, who intimidate workers seeking to unionize, stall union elections, and erect roadblocks to negotiating union contracts that improve pay and working conditions for workers.
Problem: Employers can fire pro-union workers with no real consequences
In one out of every five union organizing campaigns, employers fire pro-union workers, because employers know this will frighten employees and undermine the organizing campaign. This is illegal under the NLRA, but employers do it anyway. In fact, employers are charged with violating the law by firing activists, making illegal threats, and engaging in other unlawful conduct in 41.5% of all organizing campaigns.
Employers know that under current labor law, they will face no real consequences for illegally firing workers. They just must comply with an order to rehire the worker and pay the back wages the worker would have earned anyhow, minus the wages the worker earned, or could have earned, in the interim. In other words, firing union supporters is just a cost of doing business. The law does not provide for monetary penalties against employers for illegally firing pro-union workers, or for damages to be awarded to employees for the hardships they face when they are fired illegally. Workers have no right to bring a civil lawsuit against their employer challenging their illegal discharge—for any recourse they must depend on the NLRB to pursue their case.
The lack of real remedies and recourse affects thousands of workers. In fiscal year 2019, employers were ordered to reinstate more than 1,431 workers who were fired illegally for exercising their rights.
PRO Act solution: The PRO Act establishes civil penalties for employers who violate workers’ rights as well as individual liability for corporate officials. The PRO Act authorizes the award of monetary damages to workers who are illegally fired or suffer other serious economic harm. The legislation directs the NLRB to seek federal court injunctions to get illegally fired workers back in their jobs while their retaliation cases are pending. And it creates a private right of action so that illegally discharged workers can file civil lawsuits against their employers and are not wholly dependent on the NLRB to pursue their cases.
Problem: Employers interfere with the election process
When workers try to form a union with their co-workers, they collect petitions, cards, or other statements of support from workers in a chosen group (the “bargaining unit”), showing that workers want a union. Often workers will ask their employer to voluntarily recognize and bargain with their union once they have cards or other written support from a majority of employees in the bargaining unit. This method of forming a union— known as majority sign-up or card check recognition—has existed since even before the passage of the original NLRA in 1935. Thousands of employers have respected their workers’ choice and have recognized and bargained with unions after voluntary recognition.
But under current law, employers are not required to recognize and bargain with a union that is supported by a majority of workers. Instead, employers can refuse to recognize a union and require workers to go through the NLRB’s election process—a process that employers exploit to delay and undermine the union organizing drive.
Problem: Employers stall the election to buy time to campaign against the union
If an employer refuses to voluntarily recognize a union that has the support of a majority of employees, employees must file a petition for a representation election with the NLRB. The NLRB investigates the petition and schedules an election. Employers exploit the law to drag out the scheduling of the election, and they then use the time between the petition and the election to campaign against the union.
One of the tactics frequently used by employers to delay the election is to challenge the makeup of the bargaining unit—the group that is voting on union representation. Employers argue that certain employees’ jobs are different, that more workers should be included, or that certain employees are supervisors. The election process is delayed while hearings are scheduled and held on the employer’s arguments, even when the arguments affect only a small percentage of voters.
During the Obama Administration, the NLRB tried to streamline the election process, limit the ability of employers to challenge workers’ proposed bargaining units, and reduce litigation and delay caused by these employer tactics. But the Trump NLRB reversed many of these changes, and the time between an election petition and an election increased as a result.
PRO Act solution: The PRO Act addresses employer delay tactics by restoring the Obama-era changes to the representation election process and making clear that the decision over the proper bargaining unit is to be made by workers and the NLRB, not manipulated by employers.
Problem: Lopsided communications controlled by employers means workers hear only anti-union messages
Employers use their access to workers and control of the workplace to make sure workers understand the employer’s views about unionization. Anti-union messages are included in orientation materials for new employees, and employers use company email to broadcast anti-union messages. Nine in 10 employers require employees to attend mandatory captive-audience meetings—meetings delivering anti-union messages that employees must attend or else be disciplined or fired. Two-thirds of employers require employees to meet one-on-one with their supervisors at least weekly during organizing campaigns. Meanwhile, employers legally are allowed to keep union organizers out of the workplace so that organizers are unable to talk directly with employees on the job. The Trump NLRB gave employers even more power to exclude organizers and off-duty employees from their property. As a result, under current law, workers are bombarded by the employer’s message and deprived of the ability to hear from the union at their workplace.
PRO Act solution: The PRO Act bans captive audience meetings so workers will no longer be coerced into hearing their employer’s anti-union messages. It requires employers to allow workers to use company email systems for organizing purposes unless there are compelling business reasons for disallowing this use.
Problem: Employers hire union-busters to push back on workers’ power
Instead of leaving the decision of whether to form a union to their employees and respecting their choice, employers regularly hire third-party anti-union consultants, who craft and carry out communications and campaign plans to discourage workers from forming unions. Three out of every four employers hire third-party union-busters to help them with their campaigns, sometimes spending hundreds of thousands of dollars, or more. Employers overall spend at least $340 million each year on anti-union consultants. Workers often are kept in the dark about who their employer is hiring and how much money the employer is spending on third-party union-busters. Public reports disclosing activities and expenditures are only filed months after the activity takes place, if then. A huge legal loophole allows employers and union-busters to avoid reporting completely if the union-buster stays in the background and avoids direct contact with workers.
PRO Act solution: The PRO Act requires prompt disclosure of union-busting activities and closes the loophole through which employers and consultants have evaded reporting.
Problem: Employers stall progress toward initial collective bargaining agreements
When workers make it through the NLRB election labyrinth and vote to form a union, employers drag their feet in bargaining over a collective agreement. More than half of all workers who vote to form a union still are without a collective bargaining agreement a year later. Two years after an election, 37% of newly formed private-sector unions still have no labor agreement.
Too often, employers slow-walk the bargaining process and fail to bargain in good faith, and the law is too weak to deter this conduct. In other cases, employers take advantage of current law, which allows them to refuse to bargain if they are challenging an issue related to the original election, like the composition of the bargaining unit. This process can take years, and in the meantime, the workers’ decision to form a union is thwarted. This creates a discouraging situation for workers and allows employers to foster a sense of futility in the process.
PRO Act solution: The PRO Act establishes a mediation and, if necessary, arbitration process to ensure that workers and employers obtain an initial collective bargaining agreement when workers first organize. The act requires employers to bargain in good faith when a new union is recognized or certified so that employers cannot stall the bargaining process over legal technicalities.
An EPI chart listing some of the major problems in current labor law and how the PRO Act addresses them can be found here.
Feb 16th Protect The Wage Event Resources
Subject: Feb 16th PROTECT THE WAGE EVENT RESOURCES
ST PETE: https://actionnetwork.
ORLANDO: https://
FT LAUDERDALE: https://
Best Wishes,
Kofi Hunt
Political Director with SEIU National Fast Food Workers Union - Florida
727-643-5435
Feb 16th PROTECT THE WAGE EVENT RESOURCES
Subject: Feb 16th PROTECT THE WAGE EVENT RESOURCES
ST PETE: https://actionnetwork.
ORLANDO: https://
FT LAUDERDALE: https://
Best Wishes,
Kofi Hunt
Political Director with SEIU National Fast Food Workers Union - Florida
727-643-5435
Iraida Mujica Is Tough As Nails
Transport Track Repair - TWU Local 291
Iraida Mujica
Age: 43
Hometown: Miramar, Florida
What do you do?
I am a track repairer who works on full maintenance of the tracks of Miami-Dade Transit.
What is a typical day like for you?
At work from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and complete work orders that are open based on track maintenance. After that I go home, get ready to head out to the gym for about two hours and then go home around 6:30-7 p.m. to attend to my family. I work longer hours on Saturdays and Sundays.
What makes you tough as nails?
My endurance, mental toughness, never-give-up attitude, positive personality, hunger, drive, and fearlessness.
Read Iraida's full bio.
Iraida Mujica Is Tough As Nails
Transport Track Repair - TWU Local 291
Iraida Mujica
Age: 43
Hometown: Miramar, Florida
What do you do?
I am a track repairer who works on full maintenance of the tracks of Miami-Dade Transit.
What is a typical day like for you?
At work from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and complete work orders that are open based on track maintenance. After that I go home, get ready to head out to the gym for about two hours and then go home around 6:30-7 p.m. to attend to my family. I work longer hours on Saturdays and Sundays.
What makes you tough as nails?
My endurance, mental toughness, never-give-up attitude, positive personality, hunger, drive, and fearlessness.
Read Iraida's full bio.
TWU VETERANS
WE NEED YOUR PICTURES & SELFIES!
At 65%, Approval of Labor Unions in U.S. Remains High
Politics - September 3, 2020
Story Highlights
- 65% of Americans approve of labor unions
- Latest reading is highest since 2003
- Democrats' approval is 83%, Republicans' 45%; independents' is 64%
Gallup's initial reading of the public's support for labor unions was 72% in 1936, at the advent of the modern U.S. organized labor movement, and approval peaked at 75% in 1953 and 1957. The lowest ratings to date have been recorded during particularly weak economic times. This includes the late 1970s and early to mid-1980s -- when support fell below 60% for the first time -- and 2009 through 2012, when it hovered around 50%.
While the latest reading, from a July 30-Aug. 12 poll, comes at a time of severe economic upheaval, this has so far not had a negative impact on the public's view of unions, as it is little changed from last year's reading.
Americans' support for unions is politically polarized, as it has been since 2001, when Gallup began tracking the measure annually. Democrats' current 83% approval of labor unions is the highest on record since then. At the same time, 45% of Republicans and 64% of independents approve of unions.
In 2009, 66% of Democrats, 29% of Republicans and 44% of independents viewed labor unions favorably. Since the Great Recession, union approval has recovered among all three major party groups.
Membership in Labor Unions Remains Steady
Americans' reported membership in a labor union remains similar to recent years, with 10% saying they are a union member. Overall, 16% say there is a union member in their household.
Implications
Americans' approval of labor unions has been consistently high for several years and has more than recovered from low points around the Great Recession. Even as the U.S. grapples with the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic crisis, which includes record-high unemployment, support for unions remains strong.
Previous Gallup data have found that while Americans largely think unions help their own workers, they are less inclined to say they are helpful to the U.S. economy overall. As such, support for unions has been weaker during challenging economic times.
Americans' continued high approval of unions may result from a current focus on issues other than the economy. Generally, when economic indicators have been negative, the economy has been viewed as the most important problem facing the nation, but that is not the case now. The public is divided in its assessments of the biggest U.S. problem, with roughly one in five each citing the coronavirus, the economy, race relations and leadership. Yet, if the economy continues to struggle and it eclipses other issues in importance, Americans' views of unions could very well worsen.
View complete question responses and trends (PDF download).
Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works.