SEIU Supports Lamont Veto of Bill to Punish Restaurant Workers.

Governor Ned Lamont’s veto of a bill that strips some restaurant workers of a right to seek full compensation under the law has roiled legislative leaders. A late session addition to a job training bill bars restaurant workers who were assigned “non-service duties” from seeking full compensation. The matter is currently the subject of class action suit.

Some legislative leaders are unhappy over Lamont’s veto and considering a full press fight for an override. The offending provision has the support of Republicans and may have been the subject of a bipartisan agreement. Sustaining the veto could further strain relationships among caucus leaders.

Here’s SEUI’s statement supporting Lamont’s veto:

Rob Baril, president of SEIU 1199 New England, issued the following statement after Governor Ned Lamont’s vetoes last Friday:

“SEIU 1199 New England thanks Governor Ned Lamont for exercising the Executive’s veto power to stand up for working people. His recent rejection of a bill that was hastily passed without debate or public hearings at the General Assembly is a positive step to protect the rights of restaurant workers in Connecticut. In the first legislative session of his term, Governor Lamont has demonstrated a strong commitment to serve in the best interests of middle-class families and low-wage workers by signing into law the $15 minimum wage, Paid Family and Medical Leave and raising reimbursement rates for nursing homes. On behalf of our union members, I want to express that SEIU 1199 New England is grateful to count on Governor Lamont as an ally as we seek to improve the lives of all working people.”