Saunders praises merit-based staffing revival in job programs

TL/DR -

AFSCME President Lee Saunders applauded the U.S. Department of Labor’s final decision on Wagner-Peyser Employment Service staffing, emphasizing the importance of nonpartisan public service workers. He indicated that the rule restores the state merit staffing requirement that was overturned in 2020, which had allowed political influence in job appointments or outsourcing to private corporations. He stated that the rule aligns with the AFSCME belief that public service jobs should be performed by qualified individuals, not determined by political cronyism.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders Responds to Wagner-Peyser Employment Service Staffing Rule

AFSCME President Lee Saunders recently aired his views regarding the U.S. Department of Labor's latest rule on Wagner-Peyser Employment Service staffing. Saunders emphasized the vital role of competent, nonpartisan public service workers in supporting strong communities, a fact underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A large number of public service professionals, many being AFSCME members, rallied to aid numerous individuals who lost their jobs due to the pandemic. They were instrumental in helping these unemployed workers find new jobs, navigate the crisis, and ensure their families remained fed.

Highlighting the need for experienced, impartial individuals in employment services, Saunders voiced his approval for the Biden-Harris administration's final rule. This rule reinstates the merit staffing requirement at the state level, undoing the previous administration's 2020 decision which allowed federally funded jobs to be awarded based on patronage or outsourced to private firms.

AFSCME stands firm on the principle that political connections should have no bearing in public service. Saunders stressed that these essential jobs should be carried out by competent, civic-minded individuals who see their work as a calling, a sentiment echoed by the new Biden-Harris rule.

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