Newark signs into law ordinance that protects security officers when contracts are canceled
NEWARK NJ March 15, 2022 — Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka today signed into law an ordinance designed to protect subcontracted airport workers, janitors, security officers, and door attendants from losing their jobs for 90 days when a contract changes hands through no fault of their own.
“It is our responsibility to mitigate worker displacement and reinforce their protections.
Service workers are an integral part of our city and moving into the recovery process, job security is important for our Newark residents, workers and their families’ lives, wellbeing, and improvement,” Baraka said. “I am thankful for the Municipal Council for unanimously passing this ordinance and I look forward to seeing it go into effect.”
The ordinance, sponsored by North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr., was approved by the City Council last month. Ramos thanked SEIU 32BJ for working with his office to craft the measure.
“I am proud to sponsor a law that will protect thousands of Newarkers working in building maintenance and security,” Ramos said. “I want to thank my colleagues on the council for recognizing the importance of this measure and thank the mayor for signing it into law.”
With this ordinance, Newark joins Hoboken at the forefront of worker protection provisions for service workers. “
“As the largest city in New Jersey, it is essential for the City of Newark to recognize the essential role of service workers in the city’s recovery process,” said Kevin Brown, executive vice president and New Jersey state director of for 32BJ. “With this law, the City has taken steps to strengthening Newark’s economy and recovery.”
Marilyn Mars, a security officer and 32BJ member, said she is happy the legislation was signed so no other worker in Newark shares her experience.
“As a displaced worker from the Newark Housing Authority, I am moved to see that workers are now being recognized and protected as essentials,” she said. “I am happy to know that no other worker will have to experience the anguish of having to make ends meet after suddenly losing their jobs because the contractor changes.”
