A strong majority of AAGs and PDs have signed pledge cards authorizing the unions to represent them for the purposes of collective bargaining with their respective employers.
“This is just the beginning of the assistant attorneys generals’ journey and we’re proud to stand with them,” said AFT Connecticut President Jan Hochadel. “What they’re seeking is parity with their union member colleagues and a voice in decisions that impact their profession and their work life. In other words; basic fairness and respect, something that all workers deserve,” added Hochadel, who taught physics and science in the state’s technical high schools.
“We are honored that Public Defenders have reached out to us in the hopes of joining our union family,” said Council 4 AFSCME Executive Director Sal Luciano. “Protecting and preserving Connecticut’s quality of life in these uncertain time takes strength and resilience. I have no doubt that these hard-working men and women will bring both to our collective efforts,” added Luciano, a former social worker with Connecticut’s Department of Children and Families.
While these are separate organizing drives, the employees share a common goal; forming their own local union to negotiate a more stable and secure future for themselves and their profession. AFT Connecticut and Council 4 AFSCME have been mutually supportive in helping these dedicated legal professionals protect the quality services they provide to the state and residents alike.
The SBLR will oversee the union recognition process, beginning with separate informal conferences for both groups at the state’s labor department on September 13. At that time the board will confirm the validity of recognition cards signed by the employees and determine the size and scope of their respective collective bargaining units.
Click here if you are an assistant attorney general with questions for AFT Connecticut.
Click here if you are a public defender with questions for Council 4 AFSCME.
