During a recent government meeting, Miguel Gomez, a restaurant worker from Minneapolis, shared his harrowing experience with workplace injury and inadequate employer response. Gomez recounted an accident he suffered two years ago while working, which led to significant medical expenses totaling $7,000. Despite assurances from his employer that the medical bills would be covered, Gomez found himself facing mounting costs without any support from the restaurant owner.
Frustrated and worried, he sought assistance from ROG Minnesota, an organization that helped him navigate the workers' compensation process. It was through their support that he discovered his employer had failed to report the incident or take any action to cover his medical expenses. Gomez emphasized the importance of increasing funding for organizations like ROG Minnesota to better protect workers' wages and rights.
Following Gomez, Julie Doherty addressed the committee, indicating she would discuss two issues relevant to her community in Ward 12. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by workers in securing their rights and the critical role of advocacy organizations in providing necessary support.