
Lucas --
No one who works full time should live in poverty.
That's why I joined the United Food and Commercial Workers union and
other social justice champions this week -- to demand that every American
worker is paid a sustainable wage, is able to see a doctor, and able to
get get a day's rest without a penalty if they get sick.
Growing up, I was always told that if you work hard and play by the rules,
you will make it in America. But for many San Bernardino County residents,
the America Dream is slipping away. Despite working hard and playing by
the rules, workers continue to earn poverty wages and are denied basic
benefits that enable them to take care of themselves and their families.
That's why I strongly support raising the federal minimum wage to
$10.10 per hour, with automatic increases for inflation. I have also called
on Congress to pass "equal pay for equal work" legislation to
help end wage discrimination in the workplace and ensure that men and
women earn what they deserve.
With one in 10 people in the Inland Empire unable to find work, over 20% living in poverty, and many families earning less than they need to afford the basics, strengthening our economy and creating good-paying, family-sustaining jobs is my top priority.
With your support, we can make that a reality.
Sincerely,
Pete