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OPA News Release: [02/26/2003]
Contact Name: Sue
Hensley
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Labor Secretary Chao Speaks to AFL-CIO Executive Council
Meeting
Highlights Economic Plan’s Benefits for
Workers and Job Creation, Department’s Strong Enforcement
Record
HOLLYWOOD, Fla.—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today
spoke to the annual winter executive council meeting of the AFL-CIO, stressing
the benefits the Administration’s economic growth proposal would provide
for union members. It is the third annual AFL-CIO meeting Secretary Chao has
attended.
“Our number one priority must be to create more jobs,” said
Chao. “Our plan will create 1.4 million more jobs by the end of 2004 and
ensure growth for the long term.”
“The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported yesterday that the median
income of union members who worked full-time in 2002 was $740 a week, or a
little under $40,000 a year. Under the Administration’s economic growth
plan, a union family of four with an income of $40,000 would see their federal
income taxes fall by 96%—from $1,178 to just $45.”
Chao also discussed worker protection with council members, citing the
Department of Labor’s strong enforcement record during the past two
years.
“Workers are safer today than they have ever been,” said Chao.
“According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there has been close to an
8% drop in job-related injuries. Manufacturing fatalities have declined by
nearly 10%.
“We have worked hard to achieve these results. Every year under
this Administration, the number of OSHA inspections has increased. Last year,
we conducted 37,493 inspections—a 5% increase over Fiscal Year
2001.”
The Administration’s budget request includes a $13 million increase
for OSHA, with more than $2.25 million targeted to reach out to Hispanic and
non-English speaking workers.
Chao also highlighted the Department’s tough enforcement of Wage
and Hour laws, which has resulted in back wages for garment workers rising more
than 27%. Recoveries for agricultural workers have gone up more than 30%. Back
wages collected for Family and Medical Leave Act violations have increased by
25%.
“This Department of Labor has really stepped up to the plate to
protect workers with strong enforcement,” said Chao. “Today’s
workers are safer, they are getting paid more fairly, and their pensions are
more secure because of the work we are doing at the Department of
Labor.”
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