Service + Solidarity Spotlight: LIUNA, IUOE Call for Investment in Minnesota’s Water Infrastructure

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Members of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 and the Laborers (LIUNA) union in Minnesota are urging the state government to increase investment in water infrastructure. Together, as part of a coalition with Conservation Minnesota and the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, the unions called on state legislators to pass critical funding to clean up Minnesota’s water supply.

Joel Smith, president and business manager of LIUNA Minnesota and North Dakota, said: “Transformational investment in our water infrastructure will multiply career opportunities and training for local workers, and build momentum to bring more women, veterans and people of color into the construction industry.” The Minnesota state government announced last month that it has a $9.2 billion budget surplus.