Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union Address

Minnesota AFL-CIO Shar Knutson issued the following statement on President Obama’s 2015 State of the Union Address:

“Tonight, President Obama presented a bold policy agenda to improve the lives of working Americans trying to make ends meet. From ensuring workers get earned sick time to better childcare support, and calling for laws that strengthen unions; many of the President’s proposals are a recipe for growing and strengthening the middle class.

While President Obama acted on progressive policies where he can, it will be up to Republicans in Congress to decide whether they want to work with him to help empower working people. So far, it doesn’t appear they are willing to work with him.

However, here in Minnesota, we don’t have to wait for Congress and the President to act. We already took a large step last year by raising Minnesota’s minimum wage. Minnesota lawmakers can go even further this year by enacting legislation to combat wage theft, require earned sick and safe time for workers at all jobs, and mandate fair scheduling practices.”