Published 12 Apr, 2011
Tens of thousands of Ohioans, including a large contingent of TWU supporters, turned out Saturday to kick off the referendum drive against SB5, the anti-middle class bill signed by Ohio Governor John Kasich. The media reported that the April 9 demonstration was the largest Ohio rally yet. People are more determined than ever.
There is no turning back now! We can kill SB5 for good, if we get enough signatures to get a referendum on the ballot. We have until July 1 to gather the roughly 230,000 valid signatures we need to put a repeal referendum on the ballot. We need 500,000 signatures to make sure we meet that threshold.
TWU members are planning “train the trainers” sessions to help marshal the army of canvassers who are needed to help Kill the Bill. SB 5 would restrict the bargaining rights of roughly 350,000 teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public employees. They would no longer be able to negotiate health care benefits or most working conditions. The final decision about issues workers theoretically could still negotiate about would be made by management, not a neutral arbitrator. Public workers would be barred from striking. Workers would be required to take pay cuts and contribute more for pensions and health care.
TWU members in Ohio and beyond are needed to volunteer to help with this historic campaign. If you can help, e-mail your contact information and dates of availability to international representative Theotis James.