Sacramento, CA – Today the UFCW Western States Council and the California Grocers Association released the following statements after Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order extending paid sick leave benefits for California’s essential large food sector workers that have been working day in and day out serving Californians:
“These workers on the frontlines of this crisis are our unsung heroes for continuing to operate to ensure that Californians have food on their tables during these challenging times, and we must do everything in our power to make sure they are taken care of at home and in the workplace. Making sure they have paid sick leave and added protections in their place of work is critical,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
“The public’s safety and the safety of all workers in the food chain – from the fields to the grocery check stand – is of critical importance,” said John Grant, president of UFCW Local 770. “The governor’s executive order will help deliver a basic level of security for workers facing exposure to COVID-19 and to the community who depends on these essential workers for our food. UFCW is proud to work collaboratively with Gov. Newsom and the California Grocers Association during this unprecedented crisis to take measures to protect workers, their families and the community; and keep the food supply strong and the public fed.”
“The top priority of every grocery store is the health and safety of their employees and shoppers which has taken on increased importance during this public health crisis,” said Ronald Fong, president and chief executive officer of California Grocers Association. “We welcome the opportunity to partner with labor to ensure consistent standards to protect employees and shoppers and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
“Today, I am proud to call California my home. Governor Newsom listened to frontline workers and to make sure food chain workers can take paid sick leave,” said Berenice Huizar, who works at Food 4 Less in Los Angeles. “This will keep our families and community safer. No one should have to choose between looking after their health and putting food on the table.”
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CONTACT:
UFCW Western States Council: Jenna Thompson, 949.246.1620, [email protected]
California Grocers Association: Dave Heylen, 916.228.4423, [email protected]