[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 112 (Wednesday, July 25, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  100TH ANNIVERSARY OF IBEW LOCAL 110

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 25, 2012

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 100th 
anniversary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 
(IBEW) Local Union 110 in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the hundreds of 
working families the union represents.
  IBEW Local 110 has earned an honored place in the Minnesota labor 
tradition. From the earliest days of the union, even before its formal 
charter on July 29, 1912, Minnesota electrical workers began banding 
together to form an organization that would help protect workers and 
their families. These efforts provided a voice for workers and began 
the roots of a new local union.
  Membership in the new Local 110 proved valuable for workers and their 
families. The union set a standard for all workers in our state and 
provided much needed resources for safety, skills training, fair wages 
and retirement security. This support became even stronger through 
Local 110's decision to affiliate with the allied unions of the Saint 
Paul Building Trades Council.
  Times were at once exciting and challenging for early Minnesota 
electrical workers. From 1910 to 1913, sixty of their fellow brothers 
died due to illness and accidents caused by frequently dangerous work 
environments. In order to combat the alarmingly high number of deaths 
within the industry, Local 110 began its first apprenticeship program 
to educate its members, and made sure that they were properly protected 
in the field. During June of 1913, the first test for those members 
that worked with electricity was held, and all members were required to 
take the examination. Through the efforts of the local union, every 
member passed the test.
  International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 110 has always 
made sure their members were given the highest standard of care and 
consideration. Today, this band of brothers now includes sisters too. 
Local 110 has grown to represent 2100 members in 13 counties of 
Minnesota. The union remains focused on creating positive relationships 
between workers and their employees as well as elevating the standards 
within the industry.
  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to submit this extension of remarks to 
honor the members and families of the International Brotherhood of 
Electrical Workers Local Union 110 on the occasion of the 100th 
anniversary of this proud union.

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