SEANC is the one organization speaking out for hazard pay for state employees on the frontlines.

Bottom line: Anyone who is a mandatory employee and cannot practice social distancing measures should receive hazard pay. We’ve heard from many employees in different agencies who deserve it.

This week, SEANC Executive Director Ardis Watkins asked the House Select Committee on COVID-19 for bipartisan support for hazard pay for state employees who are unable to practice social distancing at work. She sent a letter to Gov. Roy Cooper, Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Tim Moore on April 4 on the same issue.

SEANC’s efforts have already made an impact. The Department of Public Safety notified employees this week that they would receive a small raise from existing funding. While it’s a start, it’s not enough. These employees deserve time-and-a-half compensation for the dangers they are facing.

The situation is also dire for DMV workers who continue to work directly with the public. SEANC has spoken up for DMV workers in talks with OSHR, in legislative committees, and in the media. Following SEANC’s concerted efforts, Cooper, Berger and Moore made a bipartisan decision to effectively suspend vehicle inspections until this crisis subsides. More needs to be done to protect these and all other state workers.

We can’t stop now. Governor Cooper and legislative leaders have heard from SEANC. Now they must hear from you. Click below to send them an email asking for support for hazard pay for employees in harm’s way. Be sure to include your personal story as well.

CLICK HERE TO STAND UP FOR HAZARD PAY!

Other news stories and items of note this week for state employees and retirees include:

• WRAL covered SEANC's push for hazard pay, as did WUNC
• Not all non-mandatory employees are allowed to work from home.
• WBTV reporter Nick Ochsner reported on continued inmate transfers by the prison system. SEANC's effort to stop this led directly to DPS's announcement of a 14-day moratorium on transfers Tuesday.
• The state announced Monday that seven inmates had tested positive for COVID-19. There has been no further update since then.
• State Treasurer Dale Folwell detailed his own bout with COVID-19 in this extended interview with Spectrum News' Tim Boyum. We're glad to have him back fighting for state employees and retirees.
• Information was released on when stimulus checks should arrive from the federal government
• SEANC Retiree Council Chairman Benny Brigman sent out this list of helpful links to help retirees during the crisis.

SEANC cares, and is here to help!

SEANC’s Member Relations team stands ready to assist members with any question or concern they may have in this time of need. Click here to send us your thoughts, and a team member will get back with you to find a solution. You can also send an email to seanccares@seanc.org.