Recognized for Leadership in Fight for Workers' Rights
COLUMBUS - The Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio presented State Representative Matthew A. Szollosi (D-Toledo) with the Ohio House of Representatives Legislator of the Year award today. The award was presented to Rep. Szollosi at the 78th Annual Conference in Cleveland, Ohio.
"I am proud to stand with our safety forces because they put themselves in harm's way everyday to keep us safe. Decisions to close stations and reduce staffing levels concern me, especially when statistics show crime is on the rise. We should be giving our safety forces the tools they need to do their jobs safely, so they can go home to their families after each and every shift."
Rep. Szollosi was recognized for his leadership statewide last year in the fight against Senate Bill 5 which would have gutted Ohio's collective bargaining law. Rep. Szollosi fought to ensure that Ohio's safety forces maintained their ability to negotiate fairly for proper staffing levels, necessary safety equipment and job security.
"Senate Bill 5, had it remained law, would have been terrible for workers," said Szollosi. "The Fraternal Order of Police did a great job educating the public about the true intent of the bill."
Senate Bill 5 was overturned by citizen referendum last November by a 61%-35% margin.
