Sept. 2 – Labor Day – truly exemplifies what this country is all about. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, family and neighbors to pay tribute to the hard work of men and women who built this nation. As many of us enjoy the day in outdoor festivities, please take time to remember the contributions of the American worker.

The observance of Labor Day dates back more than 100 years. The holiday was first celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City. It was proposed and planned by the Central Labor Union in New York, marking the holiday’s deep connection to worker appreciation. The first Monday in September was selected as the official holiday in 1884, and the Central Labor Union encouraged similar organizations in various cities to adopt a “workingmen’s holiday” on that date. President Grover Cleveland declared Labor Day a national holiday in 1894. Over time, Labor Day grew, with celebrations marked by parades and festivals applauding the efforts and accomplishments of workers.

This past year, we have had several successes in helping workers. The Assembly Majority led the way by ensuring an increase in the minimum wage to $9.00 per hour by 2016 (Ch. 57 of 2013). Laborers deserve fair pay for the work they do; the bottom line is those who work full-time should not be poor. Additionally, the Assembly passed the full Women’s Equality Act (A.8070), which established pay equity for women workers because gender should never play a role in determining wages.

This year’s budget protects workers by restoring financial solvency to the Unemployment Insurance Fund – a vital resource for workers who find themselves without a job during tough economic times. The budget gradually increases the weekly unemployment benefit from $405 per week to 50 percent of the state’s average weekly wage by Oct. 1, 2026. For workers injured on the job, the budget raises the minimum worker compensation benefit payment from $100 to $150. The budget also adopts the federal expansion of the Shared Work Program, providing employers an alternative to giving workers pink slips.

As your Assemblymember, I will continue to stand up for workers’ rights, and I encourage you to do the same. On Labor Day, take a moment to reflect on the contributions of workers to our wonderful state.

Please feel free to contact me about labor issues or any other concerns you may have at 516-599-2972 or solagesm@assembly.state.ny.us.