rich 1.0 Action Network https://actionnetwork.org <link href='https://actionnetwork.org/css/style-embed-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' /><script src='https://actionnetwork.org/widgets/v6/letter/support-connecticuts-working-families-during-covid-19-pandemic?format=js&source=widget'></script><div id='can-letter-area-support-connecticuts-working-families-during-covid-19-pandemic' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --></div> Connecticut AFL-CIO https://actionnetwork.org/groups/connecticut-afl-cio https://actionnetwork.org//images/generic_facebook.jpg The labor movement is working nonstop to protect the health and safety of all working people, including workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. And we are doing everything we can to reduce the heavy toll this public health emergency is inflicting on the economy and the livelihoods of workers facing layoffs, furloughs, reduced hours, and shutdowns. Last week, PURA suspended utility disconnections for nonpayment and Gov. Lamont suspended certain requirements for furloughed workers so they can more easily obtain unemployment benefits – critical first steps in making sure working people facing serious health and financial risks receive the assistance they need. But the state should be doing more to help Connecticut's working families, including: Ensure the Unemployment Trust Fund is solvent by adding additional funds. Properly fund and supply personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care, public safety and law enforcement personnel. Implement paid family and medical leave as quickly as possible. Expand paid sick day law by providing workers additional sick leave when the Governor declares a state of emergency. Protect workers who use paid sick time to take care of themselves or others from discipline or termination. Expand childcare opportunities and provide funding to health care workers to ensure they can return to work. Click here for the full list of proposals to protect Connecticut's working families impacted by COVID-19. All working people should have access to paid leave, paid sick days, unemployment insurance, and the necessary medical testing and treatment without incurring additional costs. The labor movement’s proposals represent a comprehensive response for working people dealing with the fallout of the pandemic. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-connecticuts-working-families-during-covid-19-pandemic