The Executive Board of the Oregon Labor Federation, AFL-CIO passed a resolution in support of high-road standards for data center development in Oregon at its quarterly meeting on Aug. 13. The federation represents nearly 300 local unions with members working in every sector of Oregon’s economy.
The resolution directs the federation to advocate for state policies that ensure that the growth of Oregon’s digital infrastructure advances the interests of working people by creating good union jobs, protecting ratepayers, strengthening local communities, and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared broadly rather than concentrated among a small group of corporate interests.
“Data centers are going to be a significant part of Oregon’s economic future, and the labor movement is committed to ensuring that future truly works for working people and our communities,” said Oregon Labor Federation president Graham Trainor in a press statement. “When companies spend billions of dollars in Oregon and rely on public infrastructure and resources, Oregonians should see a meaningful return. That means good union construction jobs, family-supporting careers, responsible use of energy and water, meaningful community input, and making sure residential customers and small businesses aren’t left paying the bill. Oregon can lead the country in showing that economic development and thriving communities don’t have to be competing priorities.”
