AFSCME members rally in Nevada against federal budget cuts impact

Nevada State Workers Rally Against Federal Budget Cuts

In Carson City, Nevada, a significant gathering of state employees, including Cedric Williams, Latasha Hill Burrell, and Patricia Wright, took place. These workers, all members of AFSCME Local 4041, are urging Nevada lawmakers to prioritize investments in essential public services.

The rally featured participation from Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager and State Senator Rochelle Nguyen. It was held in response to looming federal budget cuts advocated by anti-union factions in Congress, which pose a threat to Nevada's fiscal stability. The state's reliance on federal funding is substantial, with nearly 30% of its budget sourced from Washington.

AFSCME members are raising alarms through their Get Organized initiative, highlighting the detrimental effects these federal reductions, especially to Medicaid, could inflict on communities. This comes at a time when billionaires are benefiting from increased tax breaks.

Yeager stressed, "Balancing the budget on the backs of state workers is unacceptable. Full stop," reflecting the concerns about potential threats to crucial programs and services. Nguyen further questioned the priorities driving these cuts, emphasizing the disparity between the privileged few and the many.

The timing of the rally coincided with the upcoming Economic Forum's fiscal forecast on May 1, a critical tool for the legislature to balance the state’s financial books.

State employees, historically burdened during financial downturns, are advocating for legislative measures to shield public services. As part of these efforts, AFSCME members are pushing for two key bills: one to restore retired state employees' health benefits and another to enhance paid family medical leave.

Cedric Williams, a family services specialist, stated, “As state workers, we do the work we do because we care about Nevadans everywhere and care about our communities. These bills are ways that Nevada can invest in us and make sure that Nevada is a strong state people can live and thrive in for years to come.”

Latasha Hill Burrell urged the legislature to honor the Local 4041 contract, emphasizing, “We are asking for the bare minimum in a time when it is growing more and more expensive to just survive. We do critical work for Nevadans, making sure that our families are supported when they need it most, that our roads are safe, that everyone gets the care they need. That work deserves respect, and fully funding this contract is the way to do it.”

Patricia Wright highlighted the need for dignity and respect for state workers, referring to the two bills as “life-changing for state workers and retirees.” She called on lawmakers to fund the Local 4041 contract, reminding Nevadans, “We keep Nevada running, we make sure your families are happy and healthy, we make sure our state is a place that people want to visit and to live. We are there for you in your most difficult times, and there for you in the best of times too.”