Watch CBS News

Mass. Unions Pushing Early Educator Legislation

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts labor unions are pressing lawmakers to approve a bill they say will improve the quality of early education centers.

The groups say the legislation would allow for the creation of a statewide providers' organization. They said that'll help ensure that those working in early educators centers have a stronger voice in policymaking decisions.

The bill has the backing of Massachusetts Teachers Association President Paul Toner and Tom Gosnell, president of the Massachusetts chapter of the American Federation of Teachers.

The bill will be the subject of a public hearing Monday in Gardner Auditorium at the Statehouse before the Legislature's Committee on Public Service.

The unions say there are about 5,000 early educators, working in nearly 500 centers that have either state-funded contracts or serve children who receive state subsidies.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.