St. Charles, Missouri-based Propper International, the largest military apparel manufacturer in the U.S., does not pay sick days to its workers. According to an article in New York Times, Tom Kellim, Propper's chief executive, did not deny that the company fails to give workers the sick days required by Puerto Rico Law 180.
Under Puerto Rico Law 180, employees are to receive 12 sick days and 15 vacation days each year. Approximately 6,000 workers manufacture U.S. military apparel in Puerto Rico and many of them do not receive these mandated paid time off.
"Propper and other contractors in Puerto Rico have specifically chosen to manufacture there because it is the cheapest location and provides them with the highest profit margin compared to the rest of the country. Military uniform manufacturers that operate in Puerto Rico are fully capable of providing their workers with benefits in accordance with Puerto Rican law. It is time that they pay the same sick and vacation leave as other industries there."
Workers at Propper International are currently organizing for union representation by UNITE HERE and they have been battling anti-union efforts from the manufacturing company. To read the New York Times article, click here. For more information, please go to www.militaryuniformswatch.info
