Dear Members,

As you’ve likely seen in the press, I’m writing with good news. Last week, Congress passed the American Rescue Act and President Biden signed it into law. This legislation delivers for the American people in many ways, but it touches our union most by delivering financial aid to local governments.

This past year, we’ve been in the fight of our lives, pushing back on threats of layoffs. Last fall, after hard fought negotiations, we struck a deal with Mayor de Blasio that delayed layoffs through June 2021, and a commitment that if the federal government provided at least $5 billion in local aid, the delay would extend until at least June 2022. Last week, in passing the American Rescue Act, our home state senator and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, delivered for all of us. His leadership led to $6 billion in vital aid to New York City and last night, Mayor de Blasio confirmed that as a result, good union jobs have been protected and layoffs are off the table for at least another year.

Additionally, the bill provides $1,400 stimulus checks and a $300 child tax credit to over 90% of American families with children.  

As always, I want you to know your work throughout this pandemic has not gone unnoticed. You are the true heroes of this crisis and I’ll continue to work with our City, State and Federal partners to deliver for you.

In solidarity,

Henry Garrido, DC 37 Executive Director