From ReImagine Appalachia (https://reimagineappalachia.org/):
We were excited to see that there are provisions to create a new Civilian Climate Corps in the Build Back Better Act recently passed in the House.
Our analysis of the framework shows that the program could hire over 300,000 members. This diverse new workforce could conserve our public lands, bolster community resilience, and address the changing climate, all while putting good-paying union jobs within reach for more Americans.
However, we are concerned that the program is missing one key component to truly be a transformative force in the region: a living wage.
While the traditional Americorps and VISTA model have created thriving opportunities, we want to be clear that we see the Civilian Climate Corps as a new and different model that must prioritize workers who have been left out of the current labor market. This includes formerly incarcerated returning citizens, those recovering from the opioid crisis, as well as people from low-income or marginalized communities. A living wage and benefits is absolutely essential to targeting and supporting these audiences.
Two important policies that are currently in the bill include pre-apprenticeship possibilities, which would help CCC positions lead into long-term career opportunities. And prioritization for returning citizens. We believe this program provides an opportunity for people like returning citizens to obtain job skills and training. We want to ensure this program remains accessible to the widest range of people with criminal convictions. This will help to support public safety and rehabilitation.
But in order to be accessible, these positions must pay a fair wage: These jobs need to start at least $15/hour wage + benefits.
Can you tell the Senate that we would like to see a living wage for CCC participants included in the Build Back Better Act at https://secure.everyaction.com/MdwN3SdnRUKiCJY012KjYQ2?
We’re so inspired by the transformative potential of the incredible opportunities in the Build Back Better Act. Now is the time to invest big in Appalachia’s future, and we want to make sure that the CCC is able to invest in its workers. A living wage is essential to ensure that these incredible new jobs are jobs with dignity and opportunity for the people who need them most.
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