(NEW YORK CITY) - Unions, Labor Advocate Groups and Community Organizations have sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul calling on New York State to increase funding at the Department of Labor in anticipation of Federal cuts that could threaten Workforce Development and Job Training Programs.

A 19-member Coalition of Unions and Advocate Groups urged Hochul to provide $200 million to the Labor Department, citing concerns the Trump Administration will make significant cuts to the Federal budget. 

They noted the State receives as much as $244 million annually in Federal funding for job Training, Public Employee Safety and Career Counseling Programs.

For example, nearly 80 Adult Literacy Programs in New York receive more than $150 million each year in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding, including at the New York Public Library, the City Public School System and the City University of New York (CUNY).

The advocates suggested strengthening Department of Labor funding was crucial given under the Trump Administration, the National Labor Relations Board has reversed several policies aimed at protecting Workers, including protections against non-compete agreements.

“Dedicating additional funding to New York’s Department of Labor would ensure that New York’s workforce remains strong and supported up against any threats to Union density, Worker safety, workforce development, unemployment and rights on the job,” the Coalition wrote.

The Coalition also suggested additional funding is essential to implement legislation aimed at improving workplace conditions.

They cited the Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Act, passed last year, which will require warehouses to undergo annual inspections starting in June.

They also cited the Temperature Extreme Mitigation Program Bill that, if passed, will require employers to provide Outdoor Workers working in extreme heat with water and rest breaks.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Unions fearing federal cuts urge more funding at state Labor Dept. - The Chief