Senator Andy Kim Pushes for Increased Wages and Paid Leave at Nomination Hearing for Labor Secretary

WASHINGTON D.C. –Today,Senator Andy Kimdefended American workers’ right to live a life of dignity and decency during the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Hearing for Secretary of Labor nominee, Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Senator Kim focused his questioning on delivering paid leave and wages that cover the cost-of-living and ensure people and families across the country can afford basic needs like healthcare, food, and housing.
VIDEO OF QUESTION LINE
“When I talk to workers back in New Jersey, they say it feels like death by a thousand cuts right now…”said Senator Kim.“They are working 2-3 jobs just to be able to get by. They are not asking for the moon. They are just asking to live a life of dignity and decency, and I hope that we can at least be able to stand up and say that is what we are going to fight for.”
Senator Kim’s questions to former Congresswoman Chavez-DeRemer highlighted the housing affordability crisis and outlined how current minimum wages are failing to keep up with the rising cost of living in America.
Senator Kim stated, “[Housing affordability] is the top issue. When it comes to the lowest-median rents that we see in this country right now, it’s around $850-$900/month,” which is around $10,000/year. “This is where in some of the states, the minimum wage is $15,000/year, so talking about two thirds of their salaries,”Senator Kim continued.
When Senator Kim asked if part of the American Dream is paid leave for all workers,Ms. Chavez-DeRemer responded,“I cannot commit to you today that I would say 100% paid leave across the board is something that should be taken up by the federal government.”
Senator Kim works to support working families and defend workers’ rights as a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP). Kim also sits on the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; and the Special Committee on Aging. Learn more about Senator Kim’s service on behalf of New Jerseyhere.

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