Speaking Out

St. Paul

AFSCME members across the country ramped up their lobbying efforts — including placing cell-phone calls to Congress — when the House of Representatives prepared to vote on "Fast Track" authorization.

Under Fast Track, Congress could only accept or reject trade agreements negotiated by the President; it would be unable to amend them. There would be no opportunity to ensure that the agreements address worker and environmental concerns.

Local 1842 (Council 14) Exec. Board Member Pat Ryan called Congress to express his views. He also spoke with U.S. Sen. Paul Wellstone (D-Minn.) about the economic stimulus bill. "I told him they should be doing something for the average person instead of just helping the airlines," he says.

Unfortunately, after a lot of arm-twisting, Fast Track squeaked through the House by a single vote, 215 to 214. It was a painful loss, but active member involvement at least made the bill's supporters work extra hard to push it through — even delaying the vote for almost an hour while supporters forced U.S. Rep. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) to switch his vote.

The bill will soon come before the Senate. AFSCME activists are urged to contact their senators. Updated information is available through the Legislation & Politics section of AFSCME's website.