As small business owners across California close their doors and lay off employees, the Freedom Foundation calls on Gov. Gavin Newsom to take bold and swift action to get California working again by putting a three-month suspension on public-sector dues collections from employee paychecks.

“Gov. Newsom has a great opportunity here to take immediate action that would help a lot of people in need,” said Tom McCabe, CEO of the Freedom Foundation. “Hardworking Californians need that money more than the unions do. Small businesses and working families are hurting. Wealthy government unions can do their part by temporarily foregoing the dues deductions so people can keep more of their own money, spend it in the private sector and get our economy rolling again.”

A temporary, three-month dues suspension would allow public employees in California to keep nearly $250 million in their pockets. That money would then be spent on goods and services, supporting local businesses and creating jobs, at no cost to taxpayers.

“Right now, our economy is in trouble,” McCabe said. “But Gov. Newsom can quickly do the right thing and call for a dues suspension. Government union bank accounts can go three months without collecting dues. People need to pay rent, put food on the table and gas in their car. This isn’t rocket science.”

For more information, contact:

Bob Wickers
California State Director
(949) 954-8914
BWickers@FreedomFoundation.com