GOVERNOR PATRICK CALLS FOR REFORM AT AFL-CIO STATE OF THE UNION CONFERENCE

PLYMOUTH - Tuesday, March 22, 2011 - Governor Deval Patrick today called on leaders in organized labor to build on their strong history of reform and come together in support of the Patrick-Murray Administration's second term reform agenda to lower health care costs, strengthen schools, create new jobs and end youth violence.

"Organized labor has been the driving force for workplace equality and safety, and the expansion of the middle class in American history," said Governor Patrick. "In the spirit and tradition of labor as reformers, in the same spirit in which we have faced so many hard issues already together, I challenge you to work with us on the agenda for the second term."

Governor Patrick delivered his remarks today to labor leaders and municipal officials during the annual AFL-CIO State of the Union Conference in Plymouth.

During his speech, Governor Patrick also said collective bargaining is not an obstacle to reform, and cited successful first-term reform efforts conducted in partnership with labor, including education reform, transportation reform, pension reform and closing the state budget gap.

"We've shown right here in Massachusetts that you don't need to attack public sector workers or their unions to make change and deliver lasting and meaningful reforms," said Governor Patrick.

Read the Governor's remarks, as prepared for delivery