Cartwright Leads Resolution to Support Essential Workers During Coronavirus Outbreak
Statement
U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) today announced that he has introduced a resolution, with the support of 13 of his House colleagues, recognizing the essential workers across the nation who are keeping the critical parts of our economy running during the fight against COVID-19.
While much of the nation -- including the commonwealth of Pennsylvania -- follows stay-at-home orders and other social distancing measures, warehouse, food production, distribution centers, and logistics employees have been called to maintain the U.S. food supply and meet the surging demand for delivery services. They often work long hours in physically challenging roles and in close proximity to one another, most of them doing this grueling work for $15 per hour or less.
Clusters of workers and their family members across the country have become infected with the virus. This includes workers at Cargill Meat Solutions outside Hazleton, Pennsylvania, where more than 100 employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
"These are hardworking, everyday Americans who have always kept this country going. But this pandemic has shown how much we all rely upon them to stock our grocery stores, deliver items straight to our doorstep and more," said Rep. Cartwright. "It has also laid bare how uniquely vulnerable they are in a public health and economic crisis. This resolution is not just an expression of gratitude, but also a commitment to fight for well-deserved hazard pay, a safer work environment, and stronger benefits."
"Hardworking Americans who are stocking our grocery stores and delivering products to our doorsteps are putting themselves in harm's way as they continue their jobs during this pandemic," said Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, a co-sponsor of the resolution. "It is only right that these essential men and women receive adequate health coverage and the ability to take care of their loved ones just like every American deserves."
Cartwright authored the resolution as the representative in Congress for the nearly 30,000 transportation and warehouse workers in Pennsylvania's Eighth District.
Source