Monday September 3rd is Labor Day!

A day that became a Federal Holiday in 1894.  Labor Day is a day that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers.   Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. It also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, parades and athletic events. 

In today’s environment we have seen attacks on organized labor from every side.  We have seen attacks to take away the very things that strong leaders many years before us fought hard for.  Those leaders gave up other items to make sure their future, our future, and those after us, would always be secure.  Unfortunately we are beginning to see that those things they, and your current 1014 Board of Directors continue to fight for, are not so secure anymore.

As we told you a few days ago the backroom deal, without any input from labor, to change the pensions system here in California (PERS, CALSTRS and ’37 Act Counties – LACERA) was passed through the legislature and now it’s on to the Governor for signature.  Some of these changes will not affect us but some will.  As of the writing of this LACERA is consulting with their attorney’s and specialists to figure out exactly how we will be affected.  As we wrote last the unfortunate thing about this backroom deal is there was zero input from labor.  Make no mistake this change to our pensions will have a lasting affect on us and future employees. 

If you are undecided if Proposition 32 on the November 6th California ballot is a good or bad thing, the Governor and Legislature just proved how bad it will be if Prop 32 is passed by the voters of California.  The troublesome thing is what is next?  What backroom deal will they make that will take something else away from us?  We have let the Governor and Legislature know that we will not stand for these, or any future changes.  If Prop 32 passes we will not have a voice or any hope of a seat at any table to discuss these issues with our elected officials.  If Prop 32 passes everything that has been fought for for many years will be in jeopardy.  Watch for more information on how we need you to get involved to protect our future.

As always your 1014 executive board reminds you to be safe this weekend, no matter if you are at work protecting the citizens of Los Angeles County, or those members that are spread throughout the state protecting the citizens of California, as well as those at home, the beach or wherever you decide to spend this holiday.  If you are off duty we remind you, as always, DO NOT drink and drive. Don’t lose those things you have worked hard for because “I’ll be ok, I didn’t drink that much”.  Don’t take that risk.  Call a cab, call a friend or rent a room.

As always please stay informed.  Share this information with those you work with and your friends and families.

Your executive board