WHEREAS:

Every day AFSCME members work to protect and preserve the environment; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME members are continually fighting for tougher toxic and infectious waste standards, cleaner air and water, and safe and healthy work environments; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME members across the country are active in local environmental groups fighting to reduce pollution in their communities; and

WHEREAS:

Tougher environmental laws and regulations will create new jobs in some areas and eliminate jobs in others, and our Nation has a responsibility to assist workers whose jobs are eliminated as a result of enhanced environmental protection.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME support the efforts of these members by fighting to elect politicians who recognize that Americans want a planet that is clean enough not just for us, but for our children and grandchildren; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME fight in Congress, in the state legislatures, and in our workplaces for regulations requiring the use of less toxic pesticides and other materials, clean air and water, and safe and environmentally sound disposal of wastes; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME support the strengthening of the Clean Air Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and other legislation to protect the environment, and which will include strong worker protection and training programs covering public employees; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME support legislation providing workers displaced by environmental laws or regulations with severance pay, retraining, extended unemployment insurance, moving expenses, and other assistance leading to new employment; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME join with other public sector unions throughout the world to educate citizens of every nation that the protection of the environment belongs in the public sector, as it is too fragile and important to be governed by private interests.

SUBMITTED BY:

Joseph E. McDermott, President
Irene Carr, Secretary
CSEA Local 1000/AFSCME
Albany, NY

Jack Kenney, Delegate
Ed Castro, Delegate
AFSCME Local 2428, Council 57
Oakland, CA

John A. Birnel, Delegate
AFSCME Local 843, Council 28
Seattle, WA

Helen S. Lee, Delegate
Marilyn Kern, Delegate
AFSCME Local 443, Council 28
Olympia, WA