FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2021
Contact: Steve Smith 510-326-4644
California Labor Celebrates Signing of Bills to Lift Up Immigrant, Women Workers
New Laws Cement California’s Status as National Leader on Workers’ Rights
Statement by California Labor Federation Executive Secretary-Treasurer Art Pulaski
By signing the Garment Worker Protection Act and other bills to lift up primarily low-wage immigrant workers, Gov. Newsom today reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building an economy that mirrors our state’s values of inclusivity, diversity and fair treatment for all.
For years, garment workers, domestic workers, warehouse workers and other mostly immigrant workforces have been exploited and abused by corporate behemoths and their special interest lobbyists. Despite long odds, these workers never gave up. California’s unions were proud to join them to fight for landmark legislation like SB 62, which finally gives garment workers basic rights and fair pay on the job.
We thank Gov. Gavin Newsom for standing with low-wage workers in their fight for dignity and respect. We are grateful for legislative champions like Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, Asssemblymember Lorena Gonzalez and many others for their tireless work in pushing these bills over the finish line. And we applaud the large, diverse coalition in support of these critical bills.
But make no mistake, the heart and soul of today’s victories are the workers who persevered despite extraordinary challenges to pass some of the nation’s strongest laws advancing the fundamental rights of working people on the job. With today’s signings, Gov. Newsom solidifies California’s place as the nation’s leader on protecting and expanding the rights of workers.
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