Communications Workers of America Applauds Efforts by Dr. Ruiz to Support Ongoing Negotiations for Improved Labor Standards
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) is backing efforts by the Communications Workers of America D9 (CWA) to negotiate fair wages and benefits, safe working conditions, and enhanced job security with Frontier Communications of California. In a recent letter to Frontier CEO Nick Jeffery, Dr. Ruiz urged the company to negotiate with CWA in good faith, highlighting the essential services that communications workers have provided throughout the pandemic to keep communities safe and connected. CWA has pushed Frontier for improved wages, benefits, conditions, and job security in recent months, citing company practices such as outsourcing jobs to less skilled contract workers.
"Communications workers have been on the frontlines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential services that our nation has relied on while working remotely," Dr. Ruiz wrote. "These workers are asking to see their workplace concerns properly addressed. In order to provide needed upgrades to telecommunications infrastructure throughout the nation, Members of CWA are advocating for strong wages and benefits, as well as safe and sustainable job security…I encourage you to negotiate in good faith, and I urge full and fair consideration of all requests."
"CWA members at Frontier are the backbone of the company and our telecommunications infrastructure," said Frank Arce, CWA District 9 Vice President. "From the company's bankruptcy to the COVID-19 pandemic, Frontier workers have stayed committed to provide the services our communities depend on. Instead of recognizing their value with a fair contract, Frontier has responded by giving away our members' jobs to low road contractors and undercutting works on the bargaining table. Our members deserve better. We are encouraged by the support we have received from lawmakers like Representative Ruiz and the community at large. We will not stop until we get the contract we deserve."
Full text of the letter can be found here.
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