WHEREAS:

AFSCME has long recognized that public employees in southern and other traditionally non-union states suffer from a history of poor wages and working conditions; and

WHEREAS:

Public employees in these states often face state laws that do not protect their rights to organize and bargain collectively; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME has successfully overcome legal and cultural obstacles in traditionally non-union areas including our recent victories for over 1,300 employees of Jefferson County and Louisville, Kentucky, where AFSCME won the passage of a collective bargaining ordinance and employer recognition through years of hard work by and solid support from dedicated employees.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue to push for improved collective bargaining laws and/or ordinances in state and local jurisdictions where basic union rights are not guaranteed.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME aggressively organize these workers both politically and on the job to ensure that victory is attained both in the legislature and at the bargaining table.

SUBMITTED BY:

Peter Fears, Delegate
AFSCME Local 3183, Council 97
Phoenix, Arizona