The IAM is continuing its push for bold solutions to combat the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Paycheck Guarantee Act would provide grants to employers of all sizes to pay for wages and healthcare benefits for their employees.
“Machinists Union members and millions more workers across the nation who are currently laid off will be critical to restarting our economy when we are past this pandemic,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Unless we take bold action now to keep employees connected to employers, our economy will take years or more to get back on its feet. The IAM stands with Congresswoman Jayapal and will do everything it takes to pass the Paycheck Guarantee Act.”
Owen Herrnstadt, IAM Chief of Staff to the International President, testified in a virtual Congressional Progressive Caucus hearing Wednesday in support of the legislation.
“The Act is simple, effective and accessible to those who need it most—workers,” Herrnstadt said during the hearing. “If Congress can hand out a trillion dollar tax cut to corporations it should be able to fund this program, especially with the number of workers applying for unemployment compensation topping 30 million.”
The Paycheck Guarantee Act would:
– Cover 100 percent of wages up to a maximum amount for 3 months.
– Provide support for fundamental business costs, such as rent, to help ensure employers aren’t forced to permanently close.
– Include strong protections against fraud, abuse and overpayment.
Read the IAM’s letter in support of the Paycheck Guarantee Act here.
Here is how you can take action:
1) Call 866-829-3298. Tell your House Representative to co-sponsor the Paycheck Guarantee Act.