Record Breaking Unemployment

We're continuing the use of this space to provide an update on COVID 19 efforts:

Since our last update, the CARES Act (the coronavirus stimulus bill) was signed into law. This bill, while far from perfect, has several good things for workers in it. One of the most important aspects of this bill is expanded unemployment assistance, but it might not make as much of a difference in Florida. Since 2011, our unemployment system has been consistently ranked LAST in the nation due to its high barriers to entry, low payout limit, and subpar system for applications. That's why we're joining with other organizations around the state to urge Governor DeSantis to use his emergency powers to expand and fix our unemployment system so that the record number of Floridians who are out of work because of this crisis can get some relief. To share your story of unemployment and/or sign this petition, visit www.flworkersneedrelief.com. If you've lost employment due to this pandemic and would like to take part in a video testimonial project we're working on, please reach out to us by responding to this email.

For a trove of resources for COVID-19, we highly encourage everyone to visit the AFL-CIO's COVID-19 Resources site. This site is regularly updated with industry specific information on things like virus updates, industry specific information, and relief resources. Recent numbers suggest that at least 6 million workers around the United States are out of work, and that number continues to increase by the day, so we'll continue to update you on resources as the situation progresses. Here are a few more resources:

- United Way Suncoast, a community partner offering assistance and ways to get involved locally

- AFL-CIO digital trainings, including trainings on Zoom, which can be helpful for continuing meetings during social distancing

As we weather this storm together, we ask any individuals or locals affected by this to reach out to us to share updates on your situation. We're doing our best to keep track of how workers in our area are affected and align them with possible sources of assistance. We hope that everyone will continue to adhere to prevention guidelines outlined by the CDC to keep you and your families safe.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more updates. If you would like to receive text message alerts from the Florida AFL-CIO (Msg & data rates may apply), text FLUNION to 235246!

In Solidarity,

West Central Florida Labor Council

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