The DeSaulnier Digest: Mark Fights for Workers' Rights
AT A GLANCE
In this week's Digest, you will find information on:
- Legislation Mark authored to protect whistleblowers;
- Mark's efforts to support workers, including in the railroad industry; and
- Recent events in Contra Costa Congressman DeSaulnier and our office joined to celebrate public service and the arts.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Congressman DeSaulnier Introduces Legislation to Protect Offshore Oil and Gas Worker Whistleblowers
Oil and gas workers are often subjected to dangerous work environments, but those who work offshore are not afforded whistleblower protections when reporting serious health and safety violations. Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Offshore Oil and Gas Worker Whistleblower Protection Act (H.R. 9403), which would protect workers from retaliation for blowing the whistle on dangerous practices that could result in significant environmental or safety impacts.
Mark Advocates for Union Rail Workers
For months, union rail workers have been negotiating with railroads for fair pay and basic benefits, including paid sick leave, while the railroad industry makes record profits. In September, a tentative agreement was reached that included a 24% increase in wages and protections against increases in workers' health insurance premiums. However, the compromise did not include workers' requests for paid sick leave. Congressman DeSaulnier was proud to vote (H.Con.Res. 119) to add paid sick leave to the deal, but unfortunately it was defeated in the Senate. While the agreement (H.J. Res. 100) was signed into law without the sick time these workers deserve, Mark will continue to fight for fair and universal paid sick leave as well as for the rights of rail workers to negotiate the terms of their jobs for themselves.
House Passes Criminal Justice Reform Legislation with Mark's Support
The United States has some of the most dangerous prisons and highest recidivism rates in the world. With nearly 44% of those previously incarcerated returning to the criminal justice system within a year, there is an urgent need for reform. In order to reduce recidivism rates and improve care for pregnant individuals who are incarcerated, Congressman DeSaulnier voted for the One Stop Shop Community Reentry Program Act (H.R. 3372) and the Pregnant Women in Custody Act (H.R. 6878). H.R. 3372, which passed the House by a vote of 259-to-167, will support community-based reentry resources for previously incarcerated individuals who return to their communities, and H.R. 6878, which passed the House by a vote of 324-to-90, will establish a national standard of prenatal and post-delivery care for pregnant individuals who are incarcerated.
IN THE COMMUNITY
Celebrating the Service of Amy Worth
Mark attended a retirement celebration for Orinda City Councilwoman Amy Worth who has worked tirelessly throughout her career to serve Contra Costa and the greater Bay Area. Congressman DeSaulnier has had the pleasure of working with Amy on a variety of projects over the years, including their efforts to support Contra Costa's library and to upgrade the Caldecott Tunnel. Mark was proud to celebrate Amy's work in the community and to wish her well in her retirement.
President of Los Medanos College Retires
After over 10 years of service to the Los Medanos College community, Dr. Bob Kratochvil is retiring from his role as President. Our office was pleased to join LMC for a retirement celebration honoring Dr. Kratochvil's service to our community.
California Theater Grand Reopening
After closing their doors for nearly 3 years following the pandemic, the California Theater of Pittsburg celebrated their grand reopening last week. It was a pleasure to join the Pittsburg community to celebrate the reopening of this beautiful local landmark.
POST OF THE WEEK
BY THE NUMBERS
