USW Praises Introduction of the “Thomas M. Conway Veterans Access to Resources in the Workplace Act,” Urges Swift Action

Contact: Tony Montana, tmontana@usw.org  

PITTSBURGH – United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall today issued the following statement in support of legislation sponsored by U.S. Reps. Chris Deluzio, Nick LaLota, and Senators Angus King and Jim Banks: 

“Our union proudly supports the bipartisan, bicameral ‘Thomas M. Conway Veterans Access to Resources in the Workplace Act,’ a bill that honors the life and legacy of my friend and our late president, Tom Conway — a veteran, a leader and a tireless advocate for working people. 

“This legislation will require employers with 50 or more employees to prominently display information on how veterans and their families can access the benefits they’ve earned, along with the Veterans Crisis Line. These are simple, common-sense measures that can help save lives. 

“Research shows that when veterans are connected to the benefits and services available to them, outcomes improve and suicide rates decline. That’s why we’ve already helped pass similar legislation in 15 states, and we’re proud to stand with Reps. Deluzio and LaLota, and Sens. King and Banks in bringing this initiative to the federal level. 

“Tom Conway never forgot where he came from. He understood the unique challenges facing working-class veterans and created the USW’s Veterans of Steel program in response to the growing crisis of veteran suicide. His vision continues to inspire us today, and this bill is a fitting tribute to his commitment to those who served. 

“Our union urges swift action to pass this important legislation. Veterans have already done their part for this country — we have a responsibility to do ours.” 

The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations. 

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