Hearing to address fair labor standards

BANGOR – A state study commission considering legislation that would make Maine the first state in the nation to adopt fair labor purchasing standards is holding a public hearing 9-11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 11, in Room 427 at the State House, Augusta.

Rep. Zachary Matthews of Winslow introduced the groundbreaking legislation for a study commission to consider such factors as child labor and exploitation of workers under unhealthy conditions. The measure would make sure public money does not support companies that employ sweatshop practices and child labor.

The 12-member commission includes two state representatives and two senators, as well as representatives from retail businesses, human rights organizations, industry and manufacturing, the state purchasing division, a labor union and a member of the public.

The commission represents an unprecedented opportunity for Maine citizens to take a stand against sweatshops, said Bjorn Claeson, a spokesman for the Bangor Clean Clothes Campaign. The BCCC is partners with the city of Bangor, 30 area merchants and consumers who promote fair labor purchasing standards in communities and institutions. In 1997, Bangor became the first North American city to pass a resolution urging local retailers not to sell clothes made in sweatshops.

For information, contact Bjorn Claeson, 947-4203.