Agenda Summary
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In support of certain public workers right to strike.
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Official Text
WHEREAS: Bill H.2078/S.1311, “An Act uplifting families and securing the right to strike for certain public employees,” also known as the Public Right to Strike Bill, was filed this legislative session; and
WHEREAS: If passed, this bill would allow public sector workers in Massachusetts, excluding public safety workers, to go on strike after 6 months of negotiations; and
WHEREAS: Workers do not have leverage during the negotiation process if they are barred from striking, because their employer knows that they will continue to complete their work regardless of their contract; and
WHEREAS: Public workers perform essential jobs that keep our city running, yet they are frequently underpaid and unable to afford to live in the places where they work; and
WHEREAS: The Somerville Municipal Employees Union recently were out of contract for over 2 years and did not have the legal right to go on strike; and
WHEREAS: The right to strike is a basic worker’s right which should be respected in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council express its support of Bill H.2078/S.1311, “An Act uplifting families and securing the right to strike for certain public employees,” to grant public sector employees the right to strike; AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk forward a copy of this resolution to the Somerville legislative delegation as well as the House Speaker, Senate President, and the Office of the Governor.