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CWA 1037 Statement on End of State Shutdown

Dear Local 1037 Member,

Thank you to everyone who made calls, sent e-mails, and signed up to picket Assembly offices during the State shutdown. Through your efforts we have been able to end the lockout and return to work. If it were not for this mobilization we would still be out. Your actions made a difference.

While the shutdown is over, the struggle continues. As has been the case for the better part of the last 8 years, this Governor continues to play games with people’s lives. In his press conference late Monday night, Christie stated that with the shutdown ending there would be a paid holiday for Tuesday, the Fourth of July. He has not addressed payment for those who were scheduled to work July 1st – 3rd, and from his statements prior to the shutdown, we believe his intentions are to not pay us.

We believe we must be paid. Both the law and our union contract require we be paid. Our attorneys are prepared to take action and we will have additional updates on our legal strategy as we move forward. But we also know that the same efforts that brought an end to the shutdown and lockout – members mobilizing to put pressure on the decision-makers in Trenton – is what will be required so that every member is made whole and none of our families suffer a loss of income because the politicians did not do their job.

So while today is a day to be proud of the work you have done, be prepared to take additional actions so we can see this fight through to the end. The Governor and, as importantly, the Democrats who enabled him and caused the shutdown, need to know that we will hold them accountable.

A special thank you to the Shop Stewards, Officers and staff who worked tirelessly to end the shutdown under difficult circumstances over the holiday weekend. And again, thank you to all the members who took the time to take part in this fight. We will need you again.

We will continue to provide updates and ask that all members stay informed. If you have any questions, please see your Shop Steward, contact your Staff Representative at (973) 623-1828, or e-mail us at info@cwa1037.org.

In Solidarity,
Ken McNamara
President