Contact: Nat T. Bender, 908-377-0393, nbender [@] aftnj.org
EDISON…Statement of American Federation of Teachers New Jersey president Donna M. Chiera on legislation to assist, not control, Atlantic City: “The State of New Jersey has an obligation to support the families of Atlantic City, its workers and the community that has played such a vital role in the state and regional economy for so many years. I want to thank Speaker Prieto for introducing legislation that offers a helping hand without being heavy handed, respects workers’ rights and allows the duly elected representatives of local voters to carry out their responsibilities.
“On behalf of 30,000 education workers throughout the state in our union, I am proud to stand with Atlantic City’s workers and residents in advocating for this approach to helping. The decrease in Atlantic City’s revenue is due to factors much broader than the municipal borders. Legislation that overrides workers rights and subverts the will is an overreach and has led to disaster in other parts of our country.
“While we appreciate that the Senate legislation protects teachers’ contracts, AFTNJ stands wholeheartedly with our brother and sister public safety workers and public employees whose rights would be diminished. With Assembly approval, we hope this version of the legislation which respects workers and voters advances.”
Follow Chiera @DChieraM