CHAMPION FOR WORKERS

MARTY WALSH APPOINTED U.S. LABOR SECRETARY

We’re proud to congratulate Boston Mayor Marty Walsh on his nomination for U.S. Secretary of Labor. Mayor Walsh has been a steadfast champion for working families throughout his entire career, from his roots as a union Laborer to the Massachusetts State House and the Mayor’s office. This moment is historic. Walsh is the first former union member to become Labor Secretary in nearly 50 years. We’re proud to be a part of this great new chapter for our city, for our union, and for workers all across the country. We look forward to partnering with Walsh in his new role to overturn and correct the damage the Trump administration caused to safe working conditions, fair wages and benefits, and representation at work.

We applaud the Biden administration’s nomination for Labor Secretary, Marty Walsh. We are confident he will be a tireless advocate for working families.”

– James Slevin

Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO

TREASURER’S REPORT:

DEFENDING FRONTLINE WORKERS

BROTHERS AND SISTERS,

I hope that you’re all finding prosperity and positivity in the New Year. The last year has been a difficult one, and the health and safety of our members is our Union’s number one priority. I’d like to extend my sincerest gratitude to all of our members who have worked tirelessly throughout the winter to keep the lights on and the power running.

As we mark a full year since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit our region, we’ve continued to advocate for protections for essential workers, our families, and our communities.

At the federal level, UWUA worked closely with President Biden and our allies in Congress to pass a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The bill represents a major win for working families across our country.

The legislation provides direct stimulus checks of up to $1,400 for individuals and families, depending on income level, and it gives needed support to parents by expanding the child tax credit by $1,000 per child. The package also includes key funding for states and local governments to keep fighting the pandemic, and additional protections for union pension plans like ours.

Here in Massachusetts, we’re also continuing to monitor the state’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan. The vaccines are being distributed to priority groups first, including individuals who are at high risk of contracting the virus. As essential workers, utility workers are now eligible to receive vaccinations. For more information on eligibility and preregistering for an appointment, visit Mass.gov/covid-19-vaccine.

It may take some time to schedule an appointment due to high demand. Many vaccines are being diverted to mass vaccination sites like Fenway Park and Gillette Stadium, so it’s a good idea to check those locations for appointments first. To review vaccine locations and schedule an appointment, please call 2-1-1 or visit VaxFinder.mass.gov.

Even as access to the COVID-19 vaccine widens, it’s still important to continue following CDC guidelines, before and after you get vaccinated, to keep everyone safe. If you’ve only received your first vaccine shot, there’s also still a chance you can contract COVID-19 before your second dose. Please continue to maintain social distancing practices and wear a mask on worksites and in public spaces.

I encourage you all to stay informed and involved in the coming months, and most of all, stay safe.

Dan Leary

Secretary-Treasurer