Statement of Robert Roach, Jr., President of the Alliance for Retired Americans, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Janus v. AFSCME Council 31:
“The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of Mark Janus and against the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) today is the latest attack on worker freedom and rights, ensuring increased difficulty for organized workers trying to improve their workplace.
“The Janus ruling affects both current and retired workers. Retirement benefits and pension security are important elements of contract negotiation. Local leaders could see their resources drained and attention diverted to membership retention instead of effective bargaining for retirement issues.
“The Janus case was a direct attack on union strength, funded by sinister interests to rig the system against working people. The goal of conservative donors, such as the Koch brothers and the State Policy Network, was to bleed unions dry of resources that protect workers’ rights.
“The corporate narrative of the labor movement’s downfall is refuted by working people every single day. The billionaires funding this case had to try three times to get a decision in their favor, one that will undoubtedly stack the interests of the wealthy few above those of the millions fighting for a level playing field.
“Despite these attacks, organized labor remains strong. In a recent single week in 2018, over 14,000 workers joined or formed a union. Labor organizations have prepared for these continued union threats by building stronger relationships with members, organizing internally and educating the public about what’s at stake – including better wages and safer working conditions.
“We have witnessed historic grassroots labor movements and teacher walkouts all across the nation. No matter who tries to bring us down, the Alliance will stand with labor unions to protect active and retired workers’ rights throughout the country.”
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Contact: David Blank 202-637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org
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