IBEW 11 IN PARTNERSHIP WINS $500 MILLION FOR UNION JOBS AND CLEANER AIR
KEY ELEMENTS
- Relationships
- Early engagement
- Labor standards language
- Grant writing assistance
OVERVIEW
IBEW Local 11 has long been a leader in supporting climate policies that create union jobs through labor standards. The Local participates in coalitions and has built relationships with elected officials, public agencies, environmental and community organizations. Through a key environmental partner, Local 11 was able to engage early on a grant application with the South Coast Air Quality Management District for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act. Locals 440, 477, 441 and local NECA Chapters were also partners.
The application sought funds for projects including electric vehicle charging infrastructure and electrifying diesel freight and other equipment. The projects will create electrical work and reduce pollution.
Local 11 worked with the CA LMCC to write community benefits and labor language for the grant proposal. The Local also asked their extensive network of community partners to send support letters for the grant. The feedback Local 11 received is community engagement was a distinguishing factor in helping them win $500 million, the largest award. The next step is implementation.