Tuesday, February 14, 2012

ALEC-sponsored anti-worker legislation fails in Wyoming House

This press release comes from the Wyoming Democratic Party. We can expect more of this type of anti-worker legislation from the Tea Party wing of the Wyoming Republicans. It duplicates anti-worker legislation seen in legislatures across the country and promoted by the Koch Brothers-funded American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Get more info on ALEC hereHere's the Wyoming Democrats press release:
A bill designed to strip collective bargaining rights from fire fighters and other public employees failed today in the Wyoming House of Representatives. The legislation, sponsored by Representative Kendall Kroeker (R-Casper) was designed to mimic attacks on public sector employees as seen east of Wyoming. 
"This legislation is looking to create a problem where none exists," asserted Rep. Stan Blake (D-Green River) when he rose in opposition on the floor of the House of Representatives. 
"Currently five fire departments collectively bargain. It is a system that has been working well for a long time," said Joe Fender, President of the Federated Fire Fighters of Wyoming. 
The legislation did not receive the required two-thirds majority for introduction; the final vote was 42 in opposition and 18 legislators in support.
The vote sends a clear message of the importance of fire fighters and public sector employees in Wyoming.

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