Unions fearing federal cuts urge more funding at state Labor Dept.

Unions, labor advocate groups and community organizations sent a letter last Friday to Governor Hochul calling on the state to increase funding at the Department of Labor in anticipation of federal cuts that could threaten workforce development and job training programs.

A 19-member coalition of unions and advocate groups urged the governor to provide $200 million to the Department of Labor, citing concerns that the Trump administration will make significant cuts to the federal budget. 

They noted that the state receives as much as $244 million annually in federal funding for job training, public employee safety and career counseling programs. For example, nearly 80 adult literacy programs in New York receive more than $150 million each year in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding, including at the New York Public Library, the city public school system and CUNY.

The advocates suggested strengthening DOL funding was crucial given that under the Trump administration, the National Labor Relations Board has reversed several policies aimed at protecting workers, including protections against noncompete agreements.

“Dedicating additional funding to NY’s DOL would ensure that New York’s workforce remains strong and supported up against any threats to union density, worker safety, workforce development, unemployment, and rights on the job,” the coalition wrote in the letter.

The coalition also suggested that additional funding is essential to implement legislation aimed at improving workplace conditions. They cited the Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Act, passed last year, which will require warehouses to undergo annual inspections starting in June. They also cited the Temperature Extreme Mitigation Program bill that, if passed, will require employers to provide outdoor workers working in extreme heat with water and rest breaks.

The advocates noted in the letter that the state “has made great strides to ensure safe and dignified working conditions. But as many of our state’s greatest assets face unprecedented threats, we must prepare for all possible scenarios.”

The Alliance for Greater New York (ALIGN), the Worker Justice Project and the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health were among the community and worker groups who signed the letter.

“As the federal government retreats from its duty to protect workers, New York must step forward. Passing the TEMP Act, alongside implementing critical legislation like WWIRA and the Retail Worker Safety Act, represents our commitment to workplace safety regardless of extreme conditions,” Charlene Obernauer, the executive director of NYCOSH, said in a statement. “A $200 million investment in our Department of Labor isn't just funding — it's a declaration that New York stands with its workers when Washington won't.”

Transport Workers' Union Local 100, the Professional Staff Congress at CUNY, 32BJ SEIU and the Communications Workers of America District 1 were among several unions demanding increased aid.

“New York is a leader in worker protections — that’s why we have to stand up to federal threats and make sure workers aren’t left behind. We are proud to stand with our allies in labor and community to urge the Governor to fund the Department of Labor and keep workers safe,” said Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail Wholesale and Department Store Union, which also signed the letter.