UAW Endorses National Election Day Holiday Legislation

DETROIT, March 27 -- The UAW announced today its enthusiastic support for a national Election Day holiday bill introduced by Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Rep. John Conyers (D-MI.), Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-MD.), Rep. Ciro Rodriguez (D-TX), and Rep. David Wu (D-OR).

"Our experience in the 2000 and 2002 elections shows that a day off from work can boost voter participation and involvement in the electoral process," said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger. The UAW negotiated national Election Day as a holiday during 1999 contract negotiations with DaimlerChrysler, Delphi, Ford, General Motors, and Visteon.

The legislation introduced today would give all Federal workers a holiday on national election days, and calls on private employers to follow suit. The bill's sponsors include the chairs of the Congressional Black Caucus, Hispanic Caucus, and Asian American Caucus.

"No matter what cause, candidate or party you support, this legislation makes it easier to vote, easier to volunteer, and easier for you to raise your voice on issues you care about," said Gettelfinger. "We can't afford to sit still as voter participation in the United States continues to decline."