The Metro Washington Council AFL-CIO and DC Jobs with Justice will hold a virtual rally tonight at 6 (see Calendar) calling on DC Mayor Muriel Bowser to include the DC Essential Workers Bill of Rights in her 2022 budget. The Bill of Rights would guarantee long overdue hazard pay and safety protections for District essential workers in both the public and private sectors. These measures would take effect during a declared state of emergency and when the Mayor determines that there is an imminent threat or occurrence of severe or widespread loss of life or injury. During such an emergency, essential workers would be entitled to two weeks of sick leave, $3 per hour hazard pay, five days of paid bereavement leave as well as presumptive eligibility for COVID-19 workers compensation and stronger workplace safety measures to protect against COVID-19.
