A new group of workers is moving to unionize. However, this time it involves those who work for state lawmakers.
New York State Senate staffers have begun organizing a labor union. It could allow them to eventually collectively bargain for a contract.
Staffers recently delivered a letter to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins seeking support, according to the Times Union in Albany.
“At this stage, our intention is merely to make ourselves known so that we can continue to organize in public without fear of retaliation,” the group told the Senate leader. “We look forward to embarking on this process with you, and eventually sitting at the table to collectively bargain for a contract that recognizes the value and level of service we bring to the New York State Legislature.”
U.S. Congressional staffers and New York City Council staffers have successfully unionized.
“Every worker deserves a union, and legislative staff work extraordinarily tough jobs without job security,” state Senator Julia Salazar tweeted. “I support the state senate staff who are organizing.”
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