ODOT Assembly welcomes AFSCME speaker

July 21, 2009 – Dennis Houlihan from AFSCME International spoke on invitation from Assembly Pres. Willa O’Neill about the current status of transportation-related legislation in Washington at the July 18 ODOT Assembly meeting.

Houlihan looks at transportation decisions on a national level in his position, where he works hard to represent union interests in Washington. “It’s about having our voice in D.C.,” he said. “It’s about making sure labor has voice in the legislative process.”

Right now, said Houlihan, legislators are working on drafting a new Transportation Act, since the current one expires Sept. 30. He described the House as moving full-speed ahead with the effort, but said the Senate has been slowing down a bit.

Houlihan also spoke about a bill that has been introduced in the House that asks to stop states from contracting some work out. For example, it requests all inspections be done by public employees. “The inspection process is such a crucial service to the public,” he explained. He said he felt optimistic about the bill’s future.

He also gave kudos to President Obama for what he has been able to accomplish already, and for his genuine interest in transportation matters. “There’s a big difference when you have a friend in the White House,” said Houlihan.

ODOT Assembly Pres. Willa O’Neill expressed gratitude that Houlihan accepted the invitation to address members’ questions and give them a legislative update.

“We thank Dennis for coming to visit us here in Ohio and for helping as stay as informed as we can be about these important matters,” said O’Neill.

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