Amy Goldenberg

I am totally opposed to this bill! It is a direct attack on public employees, especially educators. I was a teacher for 26 years in Hampton, and during that time I served as vice president of my Teacher's Union, as well as being a member of the negotiations team for 20 years. I learned firsthand the importance of bargaining rights for our educators. No one is forced to join the Union or pay any dues, yet all staff benefit from and are protected by the language of the contract. This bill would erode the rights of all people protected by negotiated contracts. We know that bills like this that have passed in other parts of the county have had a negative impact on the quality of education, employees' rights, and ultimately the entire community. I truly believe that the police and fire were exempted from this bill because the republican representatives don't want to take on those mostly male dominated fields, and they know they would lose. This is simply an attack on mostly female dominated fields. If passed, this bill would just be the first step in eroding Unions, and there is no doubt that they will be coming for the police and fire unions next. More and more people are stepping away from public sector jobs due to constant attacks. If this bill passes, it will lead to more people leaving these fields, as well as fewer people choosing careers that serve the public. I implore you to oppose this bill and encourage your colleagues to do the same. Thank you, Amy Goldenberg