AFL-CIO Criticizes House Republicans' Budget Proposal for Billionaires

Controversial Budget Proposal Under Fire for Impact on Working Families

The latest budget reconciliation proposal in the House of Representatives has sparked significant debate, focusing on its potential effects on various sectors of society. The AFL-CIO, a leading federation of unions, has expressed strong opposition, highlighting numerous detrimental aspects of the proposed legislation.

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler criticized the proposal, describing it as primarily benefiting the wealthy. According to Shuler, the bill will result in "historic levels of harm to working families," stripping millions of children, seniors, and families of healthcare access and slashing funding allocated to nursing homes and rural hospitals. Such cuts could have severe repercussions on care jobs, Shuler warned.

The proposed legislation aims to reduce investments in emerging job sectors and limit food assistance programs. Shuler argues these measures serve to finance tax cuts for affluent individuals and large corporations. Among the contentious elements of the bill is a clause seen as targeting federal workers by reducing retirement benefits, applying monetary penalties for retaining certain rights, and imposing fees when these rights are asserted.

Additionally, Shuler points out that the bill could override state regulations on artificial intelligence, which currently safeguard workers' employment, privacy, and civil rights. The proposal may also significantly slow down the process of developing health and safety regulations.

In Shuler's own words, "Any member of Congress who votes for this bill is voting to betray the working people of this country—and we won’t forget it.” This statement underscores the intensity of the opposition from labor organizations.

For further details, please contact Mia Jacobs at 202-637-5018.