COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard issued after more than a year

Posted on July 21, 2021 by awfblog

Sadly, inaction in the beginning days of the COVID-19 pandemic left many workers misguided, confused and often unprotected in a chaotic work environment. Workers watched their colleagues become furloughed or fired, and it left many too scared to speak up about their own situation.

In the early stages of the pandemic, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) was at the forefront of demanding protections for workers. On a recent America’s Work Force Union Podcast, AFGE National Veterans Affairs Council 53 First Executive Vice President MJ Burke discussed recent workplace protections. She also explored the importance of a union presence in the workplace. Continue reading →

Travelers beware: Scammers ramping up efforts as Americans go on vacation

Posted on July 2, 2021 by awfblog

With the COVID-19 pandemic subsiding, Americans are getting comfortable going to live music events, sporting events and traveling. Scammers however are taking advantage of this eagerness to be more active.

The Better Business Bureau works to snuff out scams before they can grab hold of unknowing consumers. Cleveland Better Business Bureau President Sue McConnell joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss post-pandemic scams. Continue reading →

California labor groups work to fend off gubernatorial recall

Posted on June 30, 2021 by awfblog

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing a recall following his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The state has seen a recall before, and the labor community is once again speaking out.

The California Labor Federation is leading the charge in the statewide effort to help Newsom retain his position. California Labor Federation Communications Director Steve Smith discussed the recall on the AWF Union Podcast. He also discussed how workplace protections are changing in California, including protections for gig workers. Continue reading →

Food workers experience unfair conditions during pandemic, seek representation

Posted on June 21, 2021 by awfblog

Union favorability is at record highs, with the COVID-19 pandemic proving to many that an organized workforce is good for workers.

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 700 Communications Director Brigid Kelly joined the AWF Union Podcast to discuss the pandemic related workload, what COVID-19 proved to workers and why the PRO Act needs to be passed. Continue reading →

Increase in retirement causes short and long term impact on the economy, Social Security

Posted on June 18, 2021 by awfblog

The COVID-19 pandemic threw plenty of curveballs at the economy and the American population. While many people lost their jobs, others willingly retired early.

Alliance for Retired Americans Executive Director Rich Fiesta discussed the issues that may be created by mass amounts of early retirement. He also discussed Social Security, and how the pandemic will affect the economy long term and more. Continue reading →

Apprenticeship returns to the classroom as COVID-19 threat subsides

Posted on June 8, 2021 by awfblog

With the COVID-19 pandemic beginning to subside as more Americans become vaccinated and herd immunity is reached, registered building trades apprenticeship classes are getting back into full swing.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 38 President Mike Muzic expressed gratitude for things returning to normal when he appeared on the AWF Union Podcast. He also provided listeners with an update on work in the Local 38 jurisdiction. Continue reading →

States refuse unemployment in attempt to get people to return to work

Posted on June 2, 2021 by awfblog

Many states are beginning to cut additional unemployment benefits that were provided due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, employers are still struggling to find labor at their currently offered wage.

The United Labor Agency (ULA) works to train people and connect them with meaningful employment. ULA Executive Director Dave Megenhardt joined the AWF Union Podcast to discuss how they have helped workers with employment over the past year and more. Continue reading →

Scams on the rise as American’s return to normal life

Posted on May 3, 2021 by awfblog

As COVID-19 vaccines become more readily available, Americans are beginning to travel and participate in the economy on a larger scale. This has opened many people up to scams, especially in the travel and funeral industries.

The Better Business Bureau works to limit the amount of people who fall victim to these scams by warning consumers. Cleveland Better Business Bureau President Sue McConnell joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast to warn listeners about some current scams. Continue reading →

AFT organizing increases due to COVID-19 related concerns

Posted on February 11, 2021 by awfblog

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on teachers and the education system, but they have been resilient in teaching America’s future, despite unprecedented attacks from those with no experience.

American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania Executive Director Ethan Ake-Little joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast to explain how the education system has adapted, some issues with charter schools and the uptick in organizing. Continue reading →

Consumer protection advocates hope to rein in payday lenders in coming years

Posted on January 28, 2021 by awfblog

Many Americans are struggling to make ends meet, as the COVID-19 pandemic has taken jobs, leaving people without an income. While this is happening, payday lenders continue to take advantage of people.

Policy Matters Ohio Project Director Kalitha Williams discussed how the Biden administration may be able to rein in these payday lenders and more on America’s Work Force Union Podcast. Continue reading →

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