WHEREAS:

The United States is the only industrial country that has no comprehensive support system for families; and

WHEREAS:

Millions of American citizens, young and old, male and female have suffered greatly from the Reagan Administration cuts in already inadequate health, education and social benefits; and

WHEREAS:

The number of homeless families, families forced to be on public assistance and the number of families with children under the age of five and with disabled older family members over the age of sixty-five who have no health insurance is growing at an alarming rate; and

WHEREAS:

The economic demands of our times often dictate that all adults in the household work outside the home for pay and when family needs such as quality child care and adequate health care coverage are met, employees become more productive.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

AFSCME support appropriate federal, state and local legislation and initiatives which strive to improve the quality of life for families so that all can share in the American dream; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals work to improve contract language in areas such as guaranteeing the right to return after maternity and paternity leave and employer payment of medical premiums during such leaves; exploring part-time and flexible work schedule alternatives with appropriate safeguards; and working to ensure provision of child care and long-term care for family members.

SUBMITTED BY:

Human Rights Committee