A proposal to enhance the working conditions of approximately 100,000 American garment workers is making another attempt to be established as law.
The FABRIC Act, short for Fashioning Accountability and Building Real Institutional Change, has been re-presented by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Jerrold Nadler. This legislation primarily aims to combat the irregularities associated with piece-rate payment, where workers are paid negligible amounts for each task, like sewing a hem or attaching a button, rather than earning a steady wage.
Furthermore, the act proposes a $50 million annual support system overseen by the Department of Labor. This system will provide grants and technical support to manufacturers looking to upgrade their facilities, enhance safety standards, and invest in training and workforce improvement.
Inspired by California's Garment Worker Protection Act (SB 62), the intent is to make brands responsible for their manufacturing partners' labor conditions, urging them to actively combat workplace infringements.
Senator Gillibrand commented on the exploitative practices in the fast-fashion realm, emphasizing the industry's tendency to prioritize profits over its workforce, resulting in rampant wage theft. This exploitation disproportionately affects women, racial minorities, and immigrants.
Several lawmakers, including Senators Cory Booker, Dianne Feinstein, Alex Padilla, Bernie Sanders, and Elizabeth Warren, initially backed the FABRIC Act. Congresswomen Debbie Dingell and Deborah Ross also supported the bill in the House of Representatives.
Speaking on the issue, Congressman Nadler stated, "The FABRIC Act is pivotal in reviving domestic fashion manufacturing, which has seen a significant decline. The act aims not only to restore these jobs from abroad but also to ensure manufacturers adhere to fair labor practices."
Historical data suggests a stark decline in U.S. garment workers, dropping from 1.4 million in 1973 to a mere 91,200 recently, even as China's apparel imports surged, leading to a substantial job growth in their sector.
Highlighting the industry's lost potential, Gillibrand noted that the U.S. currently foregoes over $23 billion in garment sales to imports from China. She emphasized the importance of protecting garment workers, advocating for local production and consumption of American-made garments.
The FABRIC Act, if legalized, will appoint a dedicated Undersecretary of Labor for the Garment Industry, ensuring the enforcement of the act's clauses. Additionally, a national garment industry registry will be established to maintain and oversee minimum labor standards.
Ayesha Barenblat, CEO of advocacy group Remake, supported the bill, condemning the unsatisfactory wages of garment workers. Several renowned brands, workers, and their families also rallied behind the act, urging its swift passage for the betterment of garment workers nationwide.
Garment workers like Cris and Enedina also voiced their support for the act, emphasizing the need for fair wages and a secure, respectful working environment.
ntroduction to the FABRIC Act: A legislative proposal aimed at improving conditions for U.S. garment workers.
Key Proponents: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Jerrold Nadler reintroduced the act.
Primary Aims of the Act: To address the issue of piece-rate payment and to create a $50 million annual support program for manufacturers.
Inspiration for the Act: The FABRIC Act draws from California’s Garment Worker Protection Act (SB 62).
The Act’s Supporters: Mention of other senators and congress members backing the act.
Impact on the U.S. Garment Industry: Discussion about the decline of U.S. garment workers and the rise of imports from China.
Potential Outcomes if the Act is Passed: Introduction of an Undersecretary of Labor for the Garment Industry and a national garment industry registry.
Voices from the Ground: Ayesha Barenblat, CEO of Remake, supported the bill, along with garment workers like Cris and Enedina voicing their experiences and needs.
