On Capitol Hill
When it comes advancing the cause of COs on Capitol Hill, AFSCME Corrections United leads the way. So far this year, ACU has helped introduce and advance many critical pieces of legislation and has achieved two important federal recognitions for COs.
Opposing privatization
At the top of ACU’s agenda is H.R. 979, the Public Safety Act, introduced at ACU’s urging in March by Reps. Ted Strickland (D-Ohio), Peter King (R-N.Y.), Tim Holden (D-Pa.) and John Sweeney (R-N.Y.). The bill is intended to prevent further privatization of correctional facilities by placing a moratorium on the privatization of federal facilities and by withholding prison construction funds from states that privatize their facilities. It already has attracted the support of almost 100 bipartisan co-sponsors.
Bargaining rights
Another ACU priority is the Public Safety Employee-Employer Cooperation Act (H.R. 1093), which would guarantee all public safety officers — including COs — the right to collectively bargain over wages, hours and working conditions. A majority of the House — more than 218 members — have co-sponsored the bill, which was introduced in March by Reps. Dale Kildee (D-Mich.) and Bob Ney (R-Ohio). House Republican leaders oppose the bill, however, leaving its fate uncertain. Similar legislation (S. 1016) was introduced in May by Sen. Mike DeWine (R-Ohio).
Concealed weapons
Rep. Randy “Duke” Cunningham (R-Calif.) is the sponsor of ACU-backed legislation (H.R. 218) to exempt qualified law enforcement officers, including COs, from state concealed weapons laws. The measure was attached to a high-profile gun control bill that failed this spring when the gun bill was defeated. But Cunningham’s free-standing legislation is still pending before the House.
Recognition given
ACU also helped score two important federal recognitions for COs and staff. On April 29, the Senate approved a resolution (S. Res. 29) designating the week of May 2, 1999 “National Corrections Officers and Employees Week.” This resolution called for ceremonies to be held nationwide to honor the bravery and duty of those who work inside correctional facilities.
Both houses of Congress also voted to create a national Medal of Valor for public safety officers, including COs, who act with extraordinary bravery. It would be the highest national award for public safety officers. The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act (S. 39/H.R. 46) was awaiting President Clinton’s signature.
