2004 Convention Resolutions

Resolution No. 36

CORPORATE ACCOUNTABILITY

            WHEREAS, The Commonwealth has numerous programs to aid business in grants, loans and technical assistance; and

            The Commonwealth and political subdivisions distribute hundreds of millions of dollars to aid Pennsylvania’s businesses or to attract employers to the Commonwealth; and

            The Workforce Development Board distributes $780 million to local Workforce Boards for grants, loans, and training to businesses; and

            The Commonwealth and it’s political subdivisions grant corporations tax forgiveness and abatement programs; and

            The Commonwealth and the political subdivisions make deals regarding specific requirements of the loans, grants and tax breaks; and

            The Commonwealth and political subdivisions do not require complete disclosure on the use of these funds; and

            The deals do not include standards of corporate accountability including jobs to be created; wage levels; fringe benefits; not decreasing employment at other Pennsylvania facilities or requirements for investments in the community.

            THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, The Pennsylvania AFL-CIO support Corporate Accountability legislation which will require at a minimum public disclosure regarding the jobs created; the wages and fringe benefits; the length of time a corporation is committed to being in the Commonwealth and provide assurance that the new or expanded company will not otherwise reduce it’s Pennsylvania workforce; and

            The corporations that violate their commitment to corporate accountability be held liable for funds received or tax breaks provided.

                                    Submitted by:

                                    PENNSYLVANIA AFL-CIO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Referred to:               Legislation Committee

Committee Action:

Convention Action:

The 2006 Convention

Planning is now underway for the 2006 Convention