Resolution - Public Workers Right to Strike — File 25-1250

WHEREAS: Bill H.2078/S.1311, “An Act uplifting families and securing the right to strike for certain public employees,” also known as the Public Right to Strike Bill, was filed this legislative session; and WHEREAS: If passed, this bill would allow public sector workers in Massachusetts, excluding public safety workers, to go on strike after 6 months of negotiations; and WHEREAS: Workers do not have leverage during the negotiation process if they are barred from striking, because their employer knows that they will continue to complete their work regardless of their contract; and WHEREAS: Public workers perform essential jobs that keep our city running, yet they are frequently underpaid and unable to afford to live in the places where they work; and WHEREAS: The Somerville Municipal Employees Union recently were out of contract for over 2 years and did not have the legal right to go on strike; and WHEREAS: The right to strike is a basic worker’s right which should be respected in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council express its support of Bill H.2078/S.1311, “An Act uplifting families and securing the right to strike for certain public employees,” to grant public sector employees the right to strike; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City Clerk forward a copy of this resolution to the Somerville legislative delegation as well as the House Speaker, Senate President, and the Office of the Governor.