It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X.

Alaska AFL-CIO:

BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security just revoked the right of 47,000 TSA workers to have a union. 

An attack on TSA workers is an attack on workers everywhere. The time for sitting on the sidelines is over. 

https://t.co/cgTsEfBSxX

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 7, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

The California Federation of Labor Unions stands in strong solidarity with @APWUnational in opposition to President Trump's plan to privatize the U.S. Postal Service.

The Postal Service belongs to the people, not the billionaires. U.S. mail is NOT for sale! pic.twitter.com/cnSMU9zJRC

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 6, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

Thank you to US Congressional Reps @RepDianaDeGette & @pettersen4co for your vocal support for the #WorkerProtectionAct!

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jessica Timo of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).

Jessica Timo has been a union member for 30 years. As purchasing manager at the United Federation of Teachers, and in her role as president of OPEIU Local 153, she works each and every day to strengthen the New York labor movement. “Women’s History Month is important because it recognizes and amplifies our contributions, many of which have been overlooked or undervalued,” Timo said. “This month provides an opportunity to educate, reflect and inspire future generations to continue advocating for equality in the workplace and beyond.” 

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For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Rina Saltzman of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).

As an officer in her local, Rina Saltzman’s job is to run the day-to-day operations and act as a lead negotiator for agreements with employers across the U.S. She is also a mentor to a student through the NYU Tisch Drama Women’s Mentorship Program. “ATPAM has had many women leaders over the years who have put their imprint on the union. Along with those that came before us, the current women in leadership positions throughout ATPAM and the IATSE inspire me every day.”

Tags: Women's History Month

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kanika Jones of AFSCME.

Kanika Jones, a case worker for Head Start, has dedicated her career to helping children thrive. As a single mother of three, she knows firsthand that access to education and proper nutrition is critical for a child’s long-term success. She lets her personal experiences guide her work every day, and as an active member of AFSCME Local 2960, she uses her seat at the table to advocate for more resources for parents and children across Phoenix.

Tags: Women's History Month

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement on the reintroduction of the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act:

Americans believe in the power of unions, and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers. In too many workplaces, in too many industries across the country, big corporations and billionaire CEOs still retaliate against us for organizing. They refuse to negotiate our contracts, force us to sit through hours of anti-union propaganda and engage in illegal union-busting every day. Now they have an unelected, unaccountable union-buster trying to illegally fire tens of thousands of our fellow workers in federal jobs and an administration rolling back the workplace protections.

Shuler continued:

The PRO Act is long overdue, and the American people agree. We urge the elected leaders of both parties to move this critical legislation forward so that all workers have the chance to stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families. 

We know it won’t be easy, but the labor movement never backs down from a righteous fight. And in today’s economy, where our workers’ hard-earned paychecks are covering less of what they need while still facing unsafe conditions and a lack of respect on the job, there’s no fight more righteous than ensuring that every single worker who wants a union has a fair shot to join or form one.

Other pro-worker organizations weighed in on the legislation. Here are those who issued statements so far.

Actors’ Equity Association Executive Director Al Vincent Jr.:

Now, when workers’ rights in this country are under imminent threat, it is crucial that we finally pass the PRO Act. The National Labor Relations Act has shaped this country for the better for 90 years, and we have to shore it up. Passing the PRO Act will also send a message from Congress that they care about the wellbeing of American workers. That includes the right to organize, to receive a living wage and to combat misclassification.”

The PRO Act includes several measures that fight back against union-busting tactics by employers and strengthens the National Labor Relations Act. For example, it prohibits the practice of some employers holding mandatory anti-organizing meetings for their staff and allows workers to file civil complaints against employers for violating their NLRB rights. The bill strengthens protections for workers who go on strike, and overrides so-called right-to-work laws.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders:

Working people want to be paid fairly. They want benefits like health care, a fair retirement, to know their jobs are secure and that their workplaces are safe and free from discrimination. They know the best way to secure these freedoms is through a union contract. That is why poll after poll shows unions are more popular than ever. But joining or forming a union is exceedingly difficult for far too many. As billionaires and wealthy companies rake in record profits, they are seeking even more control over our lives, using any means necessary to silence workers. Their anti-union extremism is deepening economic inequality, halting progress on health and safety, and harming millions. 

The PRO Act will loosen billionaires’ grip on our economic future and make clear that their days of using illegal union busting tactics without consequence are over. This legislation will level the playing field, giving workers the legal protections they need to organize without fear of retaliation or obstruction. It’s about time Congress prioritized workers over billionaires and gave them a fair shot at improving their workplaces.

Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l President Capt. Jason Ambrosi:

The right to organize has been fundamental in advancing safety and quality-of-life improvements for workers across the country. ALPA pilots know first-hand the benefits of union membership and advocacy, and we stand in solidarity with those fighting for the right to collectively bargain.

We urge Congress to pass the PRO Act, which will help promote an economy that works for all working families. All workers deserve fair opportunities to negotiate for better working conditions, wages, and a more secure retirement. The collective bargaining rights within the PRO Act are foundational for strong and vibrant communities and are vital for our nation's continued success.

Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) ATU International President John Costa:

As a Union that represents over 200,000 transit workers, we know firsthand the power of collective bargaining and the protection of workers’ rights to organize. The Pro Act would strengthen those rights, ensuring workers have the ability to stand together and demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice in their workplace. Thank you to Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, Hakeem Jeffries, Brian Fitzpatrick and Senator Bernie Sanders for reintroducing this bill.

This legislation is a fitting tribute to the late Richard Trumka, a fierce advocate for working people, whose leadership and vision continue to inspire us. The ATU stands united with the labor movement in supporting the PRO Act and calls on Congress to pass this crucial legislation without delay. It is time to restore balance to the workforce and ensure that every worker has the right to organize and bargain collectively. We urge lawmakers to act swiftly to pass the PRO Act, honor the legacy of Richard Trumka, and secure a fairer, more just future for workers across this nation.

American Federation of Musicians International President Tino Gagliardi:

The PRO Act gives workers essential safeguards against anti-union attacks.  The American Federation of Musicians of the US and Canada thank Reps. Scott and Fitzpatrick and Sen. Sanders for their leadership and recognition that all people have the right to join a union and negotiate for a fair contract.

American Federation of Teachers:

The PRO Act is about ensuring every worker has rights on the job and can form a union. It:
✊Protects workers’ basic rights to form & join a union

Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.

'An American President Is Not a King': Judge Reinstates Labor Regulator Illegally Fired by Trump: “The president's attempt to fire Wilcox halted federal labor law enforcement in the United States. AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler celebrated Howell's ruling in a Thursday statement, saying that ‘more than a month after Trump effectively shut down the NLRB by illegally firing Gwynne Wilcox, denying it the quorum it needs to hold union-busters accountable, the court ordered Wilcox immediately returned to her seat, allowing the NLRB to get back to its essential work.’”

With Strong Union Support, Lawmakers Reintroduce PRO Act: “AFL-CIO President Shuler declared the time is politically right to pass the PRO Act. Organized labor’s popularity—a 70%-71% approval rating in the last two yearly Gallup polls, is at an all-time high. ‘Every other issue splits right down the middle,’ she noted. Though Shuler didn’t say so, the mass and illegal firings of federal workers—union and non-union—by Trump and his puppeteer, Elon Musk, have driven union membership up since Trump took over.”

Let’s Protect Connecticut’s Men and Women Who Keep the Lights On: “To keep all these services functioning, utilities must continually invest in the critical infrastructure to ensure those systems work. If you don’t invest in that infrastructure, over time, these systems break down because they are out in the elements, or they simply become old and outdated. Across Connecticut, members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) are doing this infrastructure maintenance daily to make sure the lights stay on.”

900 Northwell Hospital Nurses to Strike: “The union and hospital began negotiating a new contract in November, according to NYSNA. Union members voted to authorize a strike in February. In a statement shared with Becker's, the hospital said that management aims ‘to reach an agreement that continues to provide our valued nurses with competitive compensation, benefits and a safe, supportive working environment.’ The union contends that management has failed to agree to a fair labor deal that retains enough experienced nurses to provide safe patient care to patients.”

Two Unions Reach Agreement with MVHS; Workers to Get Raises: “The Mohawk Valley Health System has reached an agreement with two of its unions, officials announced. Service and maintenance workers represented by United Food and Commercial Workers, District Union Local One, and licensed practical nurses and technicians represented by Communications Workers of America, District One Local 1126 both voted Wednesday, Feb. 26 to ratify a memorandum of agreement.”

Corpus Christi Teachers, Union Supporters March for Public Education: “About two dozen members of local unions and community organizations gathered in front of Corpus Christi ISD's downtown administration building to draw attention to what they view as state and national threats to public education. The American Federation of Teachers held a ‘Protect Our Kids’ day of action Tuesday across the country. The Corpus Christi chapter of the teachers union organized the local event, joined by representatives from the Coastal Bend Labor Council, the local chapter of the NAACP, League of United Latin American Citizens, CHISPA League of Conservation Voters and For the Greater Good.”

Sherrod Brown: Democrats Must Become the Workers’ Party Again: “Since November 5, in the final months of the year, no one has had a lot of time for licking wounds. Seventy people in our office were suddenly out of work. My chief of staff and state director and I met with every member of our staff, working to find jobs for the public servants who had served Ohio, many for more than a decade. And we still had legislative work to do. We fought to finally get the Social Security Fairness Act through the Senate and signed into law. After more than 10 years of work, my penultimate vote in the United States Senate—after midnight, on my last night on the Senate floor—finally restored the full Social Security that more than three million American workers earned. Teachers and police officers and school cafeteria workers and bus drivers paid in over years of hard work. Now, they will finally get the retirement security they earned.”

Machinists Union Ratifies CSX Pact: “CSX announced on Monday that employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have voted to ratify the five-year collective bargaining agreement. ‘IAM’s ratification is a testament to the strength of our partnership with union leadership,’ said Joe Hinrichs, president and chief executive of CSX, in a release. ‘This underscores our commitment to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued and respected. Together, as ONE CSX, we will continue enhancing safety, efficiency, and service to secure sustained growth.’”

Alaska Air Flight Attendants Ratify Labor Contract: “Alaska Air flight attendants have ratified a new three-year labor contract, a union representing the workers said on Friday. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing the attendants at the Seattle-based carrier, said that 95% of the votes cast supported the new agreement. The ratified agreement would provide attendants with pay increases ranging from 18.6% to 28.3%, boarding pay, 25 months of retroactive pay and two additional raises over the contract's duration, among other benefits, the union said.”

After More Than Four Years of Talks, NBC News’ Digital Editorial Staff Gets Tentative Contract Deal: “NBC News‘ digital editorial staff will be able to delay a recent round of staff cuts and will have new layoff protections under the terms of a long-awaited first contract deal, reached on Thursday. The provisional three-year pact, announced on Friday, offers union members advance notice of layoffs and preferential treatment for rehire and a minimum of eight weeks of severance if they are cut from the job. The deal was reached just weeks after NBC News laid off dozens of employees, including 20 workers covered by the union, after previous rounds of layoffs in 2023 and 2024.”

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) members who work at Barnes & Noble at three New York City locations ratified their first union contracts, covering more than 200 workers across the Union Square, Park Slope, and West 82nd Street locations. The three-year agreements include wage increases, healthcare coverage, and safety provisions.

"Workers at Barnes & Noble should be incredibly proud of what they've accomplished together in these historic first union contracts,” said RWDSU president Stuart Appelbaum. “United in their fight for increased safety in their stores, it was their voices among others across our union that won increased protections for everyone in the industry through the Retail Worker Safety Act."

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

After three years of bargaining and a walkout pledge, journalists represented by The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003, at six of the largest Gannett-owned papers in New Jersey and New York have reached tentative agreements.

The APP-MCJ Guild and the Hudson Valley News Guild bargained separately but have been coordinating closely to secure victories for all the covered newsrooms. Wins include life-changing wage increases, strong salary floors, artificial intelligence guardrails, just cause provisions and more.

“This agreement is a testament to their strength, tenacity and solidarity and should serve as proof-positive for other Gannett newsrooms, who should stop asking nicely and start using their collective power to demand what they deserve,” said Asbury Park Press reporter Mike Davis, acting unit chair of the APP-MCJ Guild.

“We fought for Gannett to invest in our communities, and in us,” said Journal News reporter Nancy Cutler, acting unit chair of the Hudson Valley News Guild. “And we won.”

Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.

Actors' Equity:

We are saddened to learn that former Equity stage manager councilor Frank Hartenstein has passed away. His career included serving 10 years on council and work on 29 Broadway productions, including the original A Chorus Line. He will be sorely missed.https://t.co/ds2wKwPvCs

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 5, 2025

AFGE:

This ruling by Judge Alsup is an important initial victory for patriotic Americans across this country who were illegally fired from their jobs by an agency (@USOPM) that had no authority to do so.https://t.co/wrYrOShczX

— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 28, 2025

AFSCME:

Federal budget cuts CANNOT be made without slashing Medicaid & Medicare. Millions of families will lose health care & it would devastate public services.

CALL NOW & tell your member of Congress: Save the vital programs we depend on.

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sara Cutler of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).

Sara Cutler is an accomplished harpist who served on her union’s executive board for many years before being unanimously appointed as AFM Local 802 president in 2023 to serve out her predecessor’s term. In one busy year, she negotiated landmark agreements with the New York Philharmonic, the New York City Ballet and Broadway. “As a harpist in New York City, I’ve been fortunate in my career,” she said. “I believe I have an obligation to pass that good fortune on to a new generation of musicians and create a union equipped to serve them. This continues to be my personal mandate.”

Tags: Women's History Month