WASHINGTON, D.C. — As essential workers face unprecedented health and economic risks during this public health crisis, People For the American Way Executive Vice President for Policy and Program Marge Baker released the following statement in support of Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Ro Khanna’s Essential Workers Bill of Rights:

“Millions of Americans who work in essential industries are risking their lives and the lives of their families to keep our country running during this crisis. They are low-wage workers on the frontlines as health care workers, grocery store clerks, food service workers, farmworkers, and janitorial staff, and they need and deserve fair wages, benefits and other protections to keep them safe. Provisions in the Essential Workers Bill of Rights offer comprehensive health and safety protections that prioritize hazard pay, paid sick days and paid family leave, as well as free healthcare and workplace health protections. We urge Congress to pass the Essential Workers Bill of Rights to help protect and compensate essential workers who are the backbone of our economy.”

About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org