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Meng Calls for All Frontline Workers to be Eligible for Hazard Pay During Coronavirus Pandemic

May 8, 2020

Congresswoman urges any legislative proposal on hazard pay to include ALL workers on the frontlines

QUEENS, NY – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) today called for ALL essential workers to be made eligible for hazard pay in any proposed legislation that seeks to provide such wages or benefits during the COVID-19 crisis.
"Our brave and committed health care workers and first responders have been heroes during this pandemic, risking their own health to treat patients and save lives," said Meng. "We cannot thank them enough for all they continue to do. But there have also been many individuals outside of the health care field working tirelessly on the frontlines and making enormous sacrifices to serve the public during this difficult and challenging time. These individuals, who usually go unnoticed, include grocery, pharmacy and convenience store employees; delivery drivers; repair and maintenance workers; janitors; transit, sanitation and municipal workers; funeral home employees; child care workers; and so many others who selflessly remain on the job. They too have put their safety and health – and that of their families' – on the line and deserve to be eligible for any hazard pay. Day after day, these devoted workers put themselves in harm's way to help us get through this crisis; their dedication and commitment to our city, state, and nation must not be forgotten. We must support all those who have been supporting our communities during this difficult time. They have been there for us, and now we have to be there for them."
Hazard pay is additional pay for those who perform hazardous duty or work involving physical hardship.