Dear Local 2013 Member,
We know how difficult this past year has been for you and your families. You have been on the front lines during this continuing pandemic, and we salute the important role you have played during the pandemic and always. We are here to support you and I want to wish you a healthy and safe 2021.
We continue to communicate with all Employers that we have Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA’s) with to let them know we need to maintain open lines of communication regarding business changes due to COVID. For example, we have encouraged them to apply for funds from the federal Paycheck Protection Program to hold off the need for layoffs. We are also advising them that we expect all members to receive appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) like gloves; face masks; etc. We expect them to have enough inventories to assure that each member requiring this PPE, has it readily available to them.
Further, we are advising them to be understanding of members/workers issues as they relate to child care and the impact school closings may have on people’s ability to report to work or related impact on issues like absenteeism; across the board strict rules of discipline may need to be dealt with in a more understanding tone. We have asked them to distribute information on applying for Federal and State sick leave and COVID sick leave, and we will be working to ensure that you receive information regarding vaccinations.
We are part of labor-community coalitions in NY and NJ pushing for additional protections and hazard pay for workers. (check out our news page for information on the HEROES legislation)
As developments occur regarding COVID 19 (almost hourly and daily), we will be looking communicate important information to you as soon as possible; to that end, you should make sure that we have the most up to date contact information.
