Zanelli Will Draft County Resolution to End
Workplace Discrimination for Working Parents
May 2, Bethlehem, Pa. – Amy Zanelli, candidate for Lehigh County Commissioner District 3, was in Philadelphia Monday with women’s groups from the Lehigh Valley showing support for U.S. Senator Bob Casey’s proposed workplace equality legislation. Zanelli told the group she will seek guidance from Sen. Casey’s staff in drafting similar rules that would affect counties.
“At the county level a board of commissioners could pass a resolution that would be comparable that would set the right tone,” Sen. Casey said.
“We’ve got a big fight ahead of us, so thanks for running for office,” Casey told Zanelli and the other working moms who were running for office.
Sen. Casey spoke about three pieces of legislation. He cosponsored the Paycheck Fairness Act (S. 862) which would increase penalties for employers who pay different wages to men and women for equal work. He is the author of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (S. 1512) which will allow that pregnant workers are given reasonable accommodations in the workplace to ensure a healthy pregnancy. And, he’s introduced the Flexibility for Working Families Act, which guarantees employees the right to request flexible work arrangements including hours, schedules or location while also maintaining the protections of the 40-hour workweek.
Zanelli is a vocal advocate for working families and has led the fight for fair living wages and safe working conditions during her career in human services in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
She personally experienced these workplace issues.
“Having dealt with these issues twice in my career this cause is close to my heart. I was released from one position when in need of medical leave following maternity leave, and a second time when, as a single mother, I was unable to work overtime hours,” Zanelli said.
“We are proud to support Senator Casey and his legislation to protect and empower women in the workforce,” said Shawna Knipper, Chairperson of the Women’s March PA., which has endorsed Zanelli’s candidacy in Lehigh County. Also in attendance was Naomi Winch, president of the East Penn Democratic Club and recipient of the Lehigh County
Democratic Club 2017 Volunteer of the Year Award, Emmaus business owner and Planning Commission member David Weidman, Allentown School Board candidates Lisa Conover and Phoebe Harris, Anne Hoffman of Lehigh Valley Indivisible, and Maria Ocasio, a Hillary Clinton campaign organizer.
For more information about Amy Zanelli check out Facebook.com/amyz4district3
Information Provided By:
Carolynn Fedor
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