Post by bot on Sept 1, 2014 18:24:13 GMT -5
Hoyer Statement on Labor Day
WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in recognition of Labor Day:
"On this Labor Day, I join in celebrating the workers of our nation, who are not only the most productive in the world but who have fought hard and won important rights in the workplace that make our economy stronger for all. The movement for fair wages and safe working conditions led to crucial reforms that helped grow a strong middle class in the twentieth century. As we work to build a twenty-first century economy that opens doors of opportunity for all Americans, we must continue to pursue policies that create well paying jobs, protect the rights of our workers to organize, and ensure equal pay for equal work.
"In doing so, Congress ought to pass the Fair Minimum Wage Act to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, so those with the lowest incomes can still make ends meet. Congress also has a responsibility to build on the success of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 by enacting legislation to ensure that women are paid equally for the same work as a man. For the 3 million Americans who have been out of work and exhausted their states' unemployment insurance, Congress must also take up a bill to restore the federal emergency unemployment insurance that has been their lifeline.
"As the 113th Congress returns to Washington this month, House Democrats will continue to push for these actions along with legislation under the Make It In America plan for jobs and economic competitiveness. That plan will encourage private sector job growth in manufacturing that can help more Americans get back to work producing the goods that drive the global economy - and sustain a thriving middle class in our time and for generations to come."
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