From John Hutchings, Executive Director, New York State Laborers’ PAC:
We commend Governor Cuomo, Leader Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Heastie and members of the legislature on the passage of this historic budget for working-class New Yorkers. The inclusion of labor standards on large-scale renewable projects ensures New York’s transition to a clean energy future prioritizes the creation of good jobs. By requiring prevailing wage and/or project labor agreements for renewable energy projects over five megawatts that involve an REC agreement with a public entity, this budget ensures hardworking New Yorkers will earn a deserved, family sustaining wage.
Additionally, an unprecedented investment will be made in local roads and bridges, critical infrastructure and key capital projects across the state, putting New Yorkers to work and jumpstarting our economy. The New York State Laborers are 40,000 members strong, and stand ready to work on these transformational projects. Thanks in large part to the bold initiatives included in this budget, New York is poised to come back stronger than ever—and the Laborers will answer the call to help build New York’s future.