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Employee Misclassification in New York’s Underground Economy

President Bob Mantello and Secretary-Treasurer Pat Tirino are scheduled to testify before the NYS Senate Labor Committee on the impact of misclassification of workers in the construction industry.

January 13, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.
Hearing Room B
Legislative Office Building
Albany, New York 12247

Voting in a local, state, or national election is an exciting opportunity provided by democratic nations to their citizens. But some of us don't value that option when we fail to exercise our right to vote.

There are many good reasons to vote, including the following:

1. Casting a vote allows an individual to express a choice among candidates who wish to become government leaders. It's up to each voter to locate available information about each candidate and to make an informed decision about how to vote. Rather than allowing potential leaders to hide weaknesses and wrong-doing from public awareness, a democratic voting process urges citizens to get involved and to share viewpoints about who should lead. Failing to register a vote is tantamount to saying you don't care. Few people truly remain oblivious to government leadership. Most have opinions about the way things should go, and they should use the voting process to express their preferences.

2. Voting provides a medium for citizens to support the democratic structure. If a majority of citizens chose not to vote, democracy might become a thing of the past, replaced by another form of government that might prove more elitist in nature. Registering to vote means that you believe in the democratic process and will participate in it to represent your right to freedom of speech.

3. Supporting the electoral process helps to reinforce your regional government. Showing that you care with your vote tells candidates that they must be accountable to the public. It also suggests that those who introduce issues for a vote must provide adequate information to answer citizens' questions and address their concerns rather than attempt to foist a half-baked idea onto the general public.

4. Showing up at the poll on voting day sets a good example to others. Remember, your children observe all that you do and will learn from your example, right or wrong as it may be. Civic awareness is an important part of their training and one of the early steps on the road to maturity. Discuss the candidates with your family and make a point of mentioning your vote, or wearing the pin distributed at many polls that reads "I voted today." Voting also sets a positive example to neighbors, friends, and family who may be uninterested in or unfamiliar with the electoral system.

5. Finally, taking time to vote reflects pride in your nation and its government. The country becomes a beacon of liberty for the rest of the world who will be watching. Let everyone know that you care enough about your homeland and its leaders to have a say in the election's outcome. Never surrender your right to speak your mind via the vote on election day.

Visit the New York State Board of Elections website to check to see if you're registered to vote!

Respect, Performance, Quality, Commitment, Skill, Dignity