STANDING UPFIGHTING FOR WORKERS BACK
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FIGHTING FOR PRO-WORKER LEGISLATION We’re holding our politicians accountable and protecting working families. Learn about our wins and upcoming priorities in the fight ahead.
IRAPs, sending over 326,000 comments to the DOL. As of this spring, the construction industry is exempt from dodgy training standards.
1. PUTTING WORKERS FIRST IN FY21
3. CLOSING THE PRE-FABRICATION LOOPHOLE
Recently, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker tried to sneak anti-labor policies into this year’s budget. These policies would’ve compromised our current bid laws and jeopardized millions of dollars in state projects for the union building trades. We responded quickly, galvanizing legislators to oppose the measures. Thanks to our work, these dangerous provisions were stripped from the budget.
We also secured major progress on the bill to close a dangerous loophole in Massachusetts’ prevailing wage law for off-site prefabrication facilities. This loophole allows some contractors to cheat workers and drive local companies out of business. And as more workers fabricate and pre-assemble materials off-site, they are deprived of the same family-sustaining wages and benefits as their colleagues on site.
2. HALTING INDUSTRY-RECOGNIZED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS
Through our strong advocacy on Beacon Hill, we secured a favorable report from the Labor and Workforce Development Committee for the first time in the bill’s history. Thanks to Rep. Tackey Chan for drafting this bill and amassing 22 signatories in the State House. We are looking forward to reintroducing the bill this session.
Our apprenticeship programs are foundational to what we do. These very programs fell under attack when the Department of Labor (DOL) tried to implement “IndustryRecognized Apprenticeship Programs,” (IRAPs), which would’ve allowed private employers to water down key safety standards and training procedures. Together, the union building trades rallied and fought back against
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