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Dear John,
For workers in hourly and service-sector jobs, the past few years have been challenging, to say the least. Many put their lives on the line to go to work during the pandemic, only to find that their wages weren't keeping up with the cost of living and their hours are too few—and too unpredictable—to pay the bills. It is time Congress took action to provide these workers with dignity and respect.
That’s why we’re supporting the Schedules That Work Act and the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights. These two pieces of legislation will help deliver stable and predictable work schedules, along with protections and workplace benefits for part-time workers.
Unstable and unpredictable work schedules can wreak havoc on working people's lives—both for employees and their families. When you only get a few days (or a few hours) of notice before you have to work, it can be impossible to secure child care, schedule doctor visits, go to school, or hold down another job to make ends meet. But that’s what millions of people—especially women and people of color—are expected to do daily in retail, restaurants, and other low-paying jobs.
But it doesn’t have to be this way! Congress can put an end to employers’ unfair scheduling practices and provide workers with more stability and control in their jobs and in their lives.
- The Schedules That Work Act would allow workers to request a work schedule that works for them without fear of retaliation and requires employers to provide at least 11 hours of rest between shifts. And for employees working in industries where volatile schedules are most common, the bill requires at least two weeks’ notice of work schedules and compensation for last-minute changes.
- The Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights expands workplace protections and access to benefits for people working part-time by requiring employers to give part-time and full-time employees the same wages, benefits, and promotion opportunities for similar work and access to new shifts when they become available.
Every worker deserves respect for their contributions and time. The Schedules That Work Act and the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights are crucial steps toward achieving this better future. Please join me in urging our members of Congress to support and pass these vital pieces of legislation!
In solidarity,
Julie Vogtman
she/her/hers
Director of Job Quality and Senior Counsel, Education & Workplace Justice
National Women's Law Center
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