On Nov. 29 2020, longtime America’s Work Force Union Podcast guest and former Transportation Trades Department President Larry Willis passed away. In his honor, America’s Work Force Union Podcast is rebroadcasting his last appearance on AWF from Oct. 26.

In his final appearance on America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Willis vehemently defended the idea of a mask mandate in certain situations and looked forward to how President-elect Biden will handle the COVID-19 pandemic when he takes office.

Mask mandate on public transportation

Since the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, Willis advocated for a mask mandate on public transportation. He said a mandate would be an easy measure to protect employees and keep them working. Unfortunately, lack of governmental leadership at all level has left little hope for a mandate.

Willis sought a strong national mandate because of the increased responsibilities placed on transportation workers and for the abuse they have endured.

He explained how transportation workers have been asked to enforce loose local guidelines. A national mandate would give credibility to the workers and root out some of the issues the workers face on a daily basis.

How will Biden handle the COVID-19 pandemic?

After the lack of guidance and support from the current federal government regarding COVID-19, Willis was optimistic about the incoming Biden administration.

He looked forward to increased protections for transportation workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond and was hopeful that Biden would be one of the most union-friendly presidents in recent decades.

Larry Willis was a longtime guest of AWF Union Podcast. He was featured monthly and was a strong advocate for the labor movement, especially those in the transportation trades industry. He will be greatly missed, and everyone involved with AWF Union Podcast wishes his family well as they mourn this loss.

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