America’s Largest Private Sector Union Calls for Passage of Families First Coronavirus Response Act to Help Workers Across the Country
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) is calling on members of Congress to swiftly pass H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to ensure that American workers and families hurt by the coronavirus outbreak receive the economic assistance they need. UFCW International President Marc Perrone released the following statement:
“America’s grocery and retail workers are working tirelessly during this outbreak to help families in their communities get the food and supplies they need. Our country’s 80 million hourly workers are the ones most at risk and they need action from Congress now.
“The Families First Coronavirus Response Act is a strong step to help American workers by expanding access to free coronavirus testing, providing assistance for displaced workers, strengthening food initiatives for families in need, and ensuring that no one in this country has to choose between their health and a paycheck.
“With our economy spiraling, American workers cannot afford any delays by Congress. UFCW is calling on our country’s leaders – both Republicans and Democrats – to come together now to pass this bill and provide the relief workers need.”
BACKGROUND:
Earlier this week, UFCW sent a letter to President Trump and Congressional leaders outlining the union’s top policy priorities for economic relief legislation.
In the letter, UFCW called for action by Congress and the White House to provide the aid needed for the nearly 80 million hourly workers – representing about 60 percent of the U.S. workforce – who are most at risk.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act addresses many of the priorities in the UFCW letter and provides additional economic relief for workers in need, including:
- Free coronavirus testing for everyone, including the uninsured
- Paid leave with two weeks of paid sick leave and family and medical leave for workers affected by virus
- Unemployment payments for displaced workers
- Food security initiatives supporting student meals as well as SNAP, seniors’ meals and food banks
- Protection against unfair termination or discrimination for workers with potential exposure
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The UFCW is the largest private sector union in the United States, representing 1.3 million professionals and their families in healthcare, grocery stores, meatpacking, food processing, retail shops and other industries. Our members serve our communities in all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. Learn more about the UFCW at www.ufcw.org.