We think of WV as a “Red” state but WV teachers and public employees are on the verge of an illegal strike to protest huge increases in their insurance cost and a very small pay raise, like the first in 11 years!
12:16 p.m.
After a heated floor debate over process on a bill that actually had nothing to do with teacher pay or health benefits —“Relating to requirements for making consumer loans.”— the Senate suddenly moved and voted to recess until 6 p.m.
That’s when it really got crazy.
Teachers and service personnel in the gallery started to shout. Senators got up in each other’s faces. And, as the doors to the Senate opened, the crowd outside began to chant.
“We will strike.”
“Do your jobs.”
“We will vote you out.”
In 1990 WV teachers staged a strike and won a significant wage increase and improved working conditions. However they have gained very little since and with inflation may be earning less than they did back then. Today teachers from all over the state flooded the capitol and chambers. Sat a larger rally is planned with public employees.
Some great video of the action here. Somethings happening across the country. People maybe waking up!