WHEREAS:

There are currently 270,000 public and private EMS workers who work on ambulances in America who provide a vital service to our communities and ensure everyone has access to health care in an emergency; and

WHEREAS:

The EMS industry has been underrepresented by unions when compared to other industries in health care and public safety, especially in the private sector; and

WHEREAS:

EMS professionals have been plagued by low wages, poor staffing and poor working conditions. EMS workers who have organized with AFSCME have significantly higher pay and better benefits than those who are unorganized.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

AFSCME will support and commit to organizing EMS workers who are unorganized; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

AFSCME will strongly oppose any request-for-proposal process by state or local governments that would result in EMS workers losing their union; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

AFSCME will advocate for legislation at the state and federal level that will improve wages and working conditions for all EMS workers.

SUBMITTED BY:
Brian Calderwood, Delegate
UEMSW/AFSCME Local 4911
California