Issue Position: Working Men & Women

Issue Position

Throughout his career, Senator Reed has been a champion for middle class Rhode Islanders.

Reed has fought to ensure that all working men and women have the right to a safe workplace, fair wages, decent benefits, and the ability to organize and have their voices heard.

Reed has repeatedly voted to boost the minimum wage and has sought to ensure that employees receive the overtime pay they deserve.

To help workers who are dealing with a seriously ill family member or preparing for the birth or adoption of a new child, Senator Reed strongly supported passage of the Family Medical and Leave Act (FMLA).

As a member of the Appropriations Committee, he has also secured critical federal funding to bolster Rhode Island's economy, create more high-paying jobs, and expand opportunities for local businesses and their employees.

In an effort to help unemployed Rhode Islanders who are trying to find work, Reed continues to fight to extend unemployment insurance benefits so people can pay their bills while looking for a new job, which economists say is one of the most effective ways to aid the economy.

Key Priorities & Accomplishments

Senator Reed believes that men and women performing the same job should earn the same salary and helped pass the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to ensure equal pay for equal work.
Reed fought to ensure workers who are laid-off by companies as a result of increased imports or shifts in production out of the United States are eligible to receive Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and any other qualifying benefits, services, and training to get them back into the workforce quickly.
Reed cosponsored the Paycheck Fairness Act to prohibit employers from retaliating against employees who discuss or disclose salary information with their co-workers.
He secured $15 million for the creation of the Exeter Job Corps Academy to provide young Rhode Islanders with education and training. Nationally, over 90 percent of Job Corps graduates obtain jobs, enlist in the military, or pursue higher education.

Source