What’s at stake for 2022
Across the country, legislative bodies are back in session. Here are some of the policy and advocacy efforts that we are supporting to expand workers’ protections and access to public benefits, and end predatory fines and fees:
- End Predatory Court Fees Act. In her State of the State speech, New York Governor Kathy Hochul called for the elimination of parole supervision fees. This is a first step, but we know that more is required. With our #NoPriceOnJustice coalition partners, we are calling for the elimination of mandatory minimums, an end to incarceration on the basis of unpaid fines and fees, and an end to garnishment of commissary accounts. We are also working with grassroots partners in Buffalo to remove police from traffic enforcement.
- Clean Slate Act. This state bill seals criminal records after a period of time so that people aren’t discriminated against while applying for jobs or housing. We know that New York does better when everyone is granted a second chance and meaningful opportunity to thrive.
- Consumer and Small Business Protection Act. This bill bans unfair and abusive business conduct in New York and provides a powerful tool to help people fight environmental racism, abusive landlords, and predatory lending.
- Build Back Better Act. This federal infrastructure bill includes living wages for home healthcare workers. We are also advocating to make the Child Tax Credit permanent, a transformative shift that would significantly reduce child poverty over time. And, we are applauding New York legislators who are making a case for investments to NYCHA, which would benefit thousands of low-income New Yorkers.
- SWEAT Bill. This legislation that would allow workers to challenge employers who engage in wage theft in New York State.
- On a federal level, we are joining national partners in calling for abolishing the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers and workers with disabilities. And on behalf of the millions of low-wage workers who kept us afloat during the pandemic, we are continuing to fight for the expansion of unemployment insurance.
- Cancel student debt. We are joining hundreds of partners in asking the President to cancel student debt, an action that will help reduce the wealth gap between Black and white communities.
