WHEREAS:

A strong and effective political action program must be and is part of the daily lives of the 1.6 million active and retired women and men of AFSCME and is woven into the fabric of our union; and

WHEREAS:
A broad and robust political action program provides a platform from which we launch the other important aspects of our union program; and

WHEREAS:
A positive political climate facilitates our efforts to organize new members into the union, negotiate and bargain collectively on behalf of workers, bring and settle grievances and maintain a safe and healthy workplace; and

WHEREAS:
A positive political climate allows for a more equitable resolution of budgetary and fiscal challenges, makes more certain the recognition of our needs and priorities, and ensures the treatment of our members with the dignity and respect they deserve; and

WHEREAS:
The PEOPLE PAC (Public Employees Organized to Promote Legislative Equality) is an essential vehicle with which this union funds our political activities; and

WHEREAS:
The decided goal of our leadership was to enroll 25 percent of our members at the MVP level in PEOPLE by 2011, pursuant to the Power To Win goals adopted by the delegates at the 2006 convention; and

WHEREAS:
PEOPLE has been modernized, enhanced and re-energized, applying new technologies and adding the new PEOPLE rewards program.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That we reaffirm our commitment to the PEOPLE PAC as a critical component of AFSCME’s program of political action; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That records and contributions reflecting members’ PEOPLE contributions be submitted by AFSCME affiliates within the prescribed timeframe and sent electronically to ensure accountability and accuracy of data; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That we commit ourselves to enrolling 10 percent of our members at the MVP level in PEOPLE by December 31, 2012; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That the International Union will provide additional enhanced training for the PEOPLE program and that all councils and locals are strongly encouraged to participate; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That toward that goal, affiliates designate a PEOPLE coordinator at every worksite where practical to ensure maximum participation at each local union.
 
 
SUBMITTED BY: 
INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD