Photo: Curtsey of Teamsters Local 25
LOWELL, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) – The Lowell City Council has voted 8-1 in favor of a resolution aimed at shipping giant Amazon.
“The Resolution for Fair and Full Employment” was introduced in response to public safety and economic concerns surrounding workers during the pandemic.
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The resolution urged Amazon to conform to local standards for wages, benefits and safe working conditions for their employees. It conferred with the Lowell community, including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 25.
“Amazon enjoys enormous profits and status among the world’s richest corporations but continues disrespecting workers and showing no regard for safety,” said Teamsters Local 25 President Sean M. O’Brien. He added that Teamster drivers are trained professionals who deserve to be accommodated.
“They have quality health insurance, retirement and earn good wages to support their families and build a career,” O’Brien said. “The Lowell City Council deserves the highest praise for standing up for these workers.”
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Boston was the first municipality to present such as case when the city unanimously approved a similar resolution last year. Since then, many other cities have passed resolutions calling on Amazon to improve its safety and treatment of workers.
The resolution in Lowell ensures that any of Amazon's plans to expand delivery operations, warehouses or fulfillment centers are done in a manner that benefits the city and its residents.
Councilors are also calling on the shipping giant to present sufficient evidence that its operations meet or exceed current community standards established by existing delivery networks.
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