CWA and Allies Rally After Governor Vetoes Pro-Worker Bills

Last week, members of CWA Local 7799, AFL-CIO allies, and other pro-worker advocates gathered at the Colorado Capitol to voice their outrage at Colorado Governor Jared Polis’ vetoes of three pro-worker bills. The bills include HB 1008 (to protect workers in the construction industry from wage theft), HB 1260 (which would protect workers from retaliation for opting out of anti-union “captive audience” meetings or religious speech from an employer), and HB 1307 (which would improve air conditioning and heating in public schools).

Prior to the late-night vetoes, CWA President Claude Cummings Jr. sent a letter to Governor Polis outlining the need for HB 1260 to protect workers from coercive tactics by anti-union bosses.

CWA Local 7799 President Jade Kelly, who testified and advocated for this bill, said, "If Governor Jared Polis thinks a last-minute veto will silence the workers of Colorado, our rally showed just how out of touch he is with working people. We built this state, and we aren't going anywhere." Jade and Jim Walsh, also with CWA Local 7799, both spoke at the rally and highlighted the need for worker solidarity and fighting back at this moment.

The labor activists, estimated at over 500 strong, were joined by 19 Colorado Democrats, including House Majority Leader Monica Duran (D), sponsor of both HB 1008 and HB 1260. The rally was led by Colorado AFL-CIO Executive Director Dennis Dougherty.

Ending “captive audience” meetings has been a priority for CWA with our most recent win in Washington State in April. Illinois is set to become the next state to pass similar legislation.

 
Members of CWA Local 7799, along with AFL-CIO allies and Colorado Democrats, rallied at the Colorado State Capitol to express their anger at Governor Jared Polis’ late-night veto of legislation designed to protect workers and children.