Stand Up for Our Rights: Why We Must Oppose AB 1751 Together

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Our wages and benefits are facing a serious threat. A new bill, AB 1751, introduced in Sacramento and sponsored by the Carpenters Union, aims to set a $28.00 minimum wage for residential construction. On the surface, this might seem like a positive step, but the reality is far more damaging. This legislation would eliminate essential benefits such as health care, pension, and overtime pay for workers in our industry. This is not just an attack on wages; it is an attempt to weaken our Union’s strength and allow others to take over our work.

We cannot afford to stay silent. This post explains why AB 1751 is harmful, how it affects every worker in residential construction, and what we can do to protect our rights and livelihoods.

The Carpenter’s minimum wage bill will be heard in Senate Local

Government Committee the week of week of June 15th.

Visit the Save Our Wages No On AB 1751 website at  https://www.stopab1751.com/

With one click you can have your voice heard, it takes less than two minutes.

What AB 1751 Means for Workers

AB 1751 proposes a flat minimum wage of $28.00 per hour for residential construction workers. At first glance, this might look like a fair wage increase. But the bill removes critical components that make our compensation fair and sustainable:

• No health care benefits

• No pension contributions

• No overtime pay

  
  

These benefits are not extras; they are essential parts of our total compensation. Without them, the $28.00 wage does not cover the true cost of living or the value of our work.

The Real Cost of Losing Benefits

Consider this example: A worker earning $28.00 per hour without health care or pension is effectively earning less than a worker earning $25.00 per hour with full benefits. Health care premiums and pension contributions can add thousands of dollars in value each year. Losing overtime pay also means workers will be paid less for the extra hours they put in, which is common in construction.

This bill would force workers to accept lower overall compensation, even if the hourly wage looks higher on paper.

How AB 1751 Threatens Our Union and Jobs

The bill is sponsored by the Carpenters Union, but it is a strategic move to weaken other Unions and open the door for the Carpenters to organize and take over work traditionally done by our Members. This is a direct attack on our market and our ability to negotiate fair wages and benefits.

By lowering the standard for residential construction wages and benefits, AB 1751 creates a race to the bottom. Contractors may choose to hire workers under these reduced terms, undermining the prevailing wage laws that protect all workers in the industry.

Why Prevailing Wage Matters

Prevailing wage laws ensure that workers receive fair pay and benefits based on local standards. These laws prevent Contractors from cutting corners by hiring cheaper labor without benefits. They protect the quality of work and the safety of workers.

AB 1751 undermines these laws by setting a fixed wage without benefits. This weakens the bargaining power of Unions and reduces the overall quality of jobs in residential construction.

What We Can Do to Fight Back

Our strength lies in unity. We must stand together to oppose AB 1751 and protect our wages, benefits, and jobs. Here are practical steps every worker can take:

• Visit the Save Our Wages No On AB 1751 website

The website provides information and tools to take action.

https://www.stopab1751.com/

• Send an email to your legislators

Remember, it takes less than two minutes to register your opposition. Your voice matters.

• Talk to your coworkers and community

Spread the word about the dangers of AB 1751. The more people who know, the stronger our fight.

The Power of Solidarity

History shows that when workers unite, they can overcome challenges and protect their rights. This fight is no different. By standing together, we send a clear message that we will not accept legislation that harms our families and our future.

Our wages and benefits are the result of years of hard work and sacrifice. We owe it to ourselves and the next generation to defend them.

We face a critical moment. AB 1751 threatens to lower our standards and divide our community. But with one click, one email, and one conversation, we can make a difference. Visit the Save Our Wages No On AB 1751 website today and join the fight to protect what we have earned.

Together, we are strong. Together, we will stand up for our rights.

In Solidarity,

Sasha Stevens

Business Manager / Financial Secretary-Treasurer