Okay, I try to avoid delving into political matters, but this one has me completely confused. According to the Sacramento Bee, dated July 27, 2009, "members of California's largest state employee union have been voting on whether to give their leaders permission to call a strike." In addition, the Bee notes that "Government officials say that a walk-out...would violate labor agreements and that the state would punish anyone who strikes."
Here is where some common sense is needed. First of all, does anyone remember when the air traffic controllers went on strike during the Reagan presidency? It was deemed to be an illegal strike. What did Reagan do? He fired all of the striking employees. Does the SEIU think that the California legislature and the Governor wouldn't just jump at the chance to reduce the state labor force by legally canning the strikers? Just think of the money they would save!
Yes, it stinks being put on furlough and losing 20% of your pay. I mean it really stinks. Tell that to the thousands upon thousands who have completely lost their jobs, are living on a pittance of unemployment, and can't find new jobs. Do you honestly think there wouldn't be a line to apply for a State job even at a 20% lower rate of pay?
Eventually, one would expect that the economy would turn around (unless this system of things ends before that happens...), and then the State will probably do its normal idiotic routine of throwing money around on pet projects like there's no end to the funds. But until then, understand that your union leaders aren't really doing you a favor. If an illegal work stoppage takes place and you lose your job, will you really be happier and doing better financially? Ask the fired Air Traffic Controllers.
Until things turn around, tighten your belts, live within your means, and hope that the economy turns around for you. You'll be doing the same thing that the majority of Californians are doing right now.
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3 comments:
Exactly what I have been saying to the workmates who want me to turn in my strike ballot...well, that and witnessing a bit too. Anyway..its a tough subject when the people you are talking to are losing their homes (because both mates work for the state) or having to move out of their apartment and move in with another family to cut costs. We just need the system to end. Adam..any happy subjects out there? I know..you don't do fluff pieces..=)
I'll try to write something silly and/or cheerful tomorrow.
Tell them those of us who are unemployed will happily take the jobs they want to vacate. Most of us would jump at the chance to have any job that pays more than what we're trying (and failing sometimes) to live on right now.
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