Contact:
Brittany Holder
202-297-7244
[email protected]
WASHINGTON – Today, American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE) National President Everett Kelley released the following statement after last weekend’s severe storms and tornadoes claimed the lives of nearly 100 people:
“AFGE extends our sincerest condolences to the friends, family members, and coworkers of all those who lost their lives during the past weekend’s tragedy and everyone who was affected by these devastating storms.
“We also extend our appreciation to all of the dedicated first responders from FEMA and other agencies who are assisting in the response and recovery efforts.
“We are particularly troubled by reports from workers that there were insufficient emergency protocols in place to allow them to keep safe in advance of or during such events. This is another example of why workers must have a union so that they can obtain health and safety standards that put safety at the forefront.
“Employers must be required by contract or by law to put people’s lives over profits. Two-day shipping is too high a price to pay for even one worker’s life.”
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