WHEREAS:

In spite of the fact that contracting out is an abdication of responsibility rather than a commitment to improving management, the push to contract out services continues; and

WHEREAS:

Contracting out is promoted as a way to save money and improve services to the public. In reality, experience shows that contracting out can lead to higher costs, deterioration of service, loss of accountability and flexibility, and provides an opportunity for corruption; and

WHEREAS:

Private sector contractors typically provide entry-level workers with lower wages, fewer benefits, and less opportunity for advancement. This elimination of middle-income jobs and expansion in lower-paying jobs results in a lower tax base for the community, as well as an increase in the number of people in need of social services; and

WHEREAS:

Women and minorities rely to a greater extent than white males on public sector employment as a means to social and economic advancement. Therefore, they are disproportionately affected by contracting out.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME in coalition with other public service unions continue to fight the contracting out of public services on all fronts; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME participate in joint labor-management committees which address not only concerns of contracting out but also solutions that where appropriate result in increased job satisfaction; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals continue to actively oppose contracting out by educating employers, politicians, and the public about its real disadvantages and dangers; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals negotiate the best possible safeguards and protections against contracting out. In addition, other strategies such as cost comparisons and feasibility analyses, publicity campaigns, lobbying, community coalitions, and the passage of legislation restricting the contracting out of services for the public should be explored and utilized where appropriate.

SUBMITTED BY:

Willie Seabrooks, Jr., President
Vernon C. Cooper, Secretary-Treasurer
AFSCME Local 3292, Council 79
Miami, FL

Edith Pollach, Delegate
David Ballard, Delegate
AFSCME Local 2712, Council 36
Los Angeles, CA