WASHINGTON, DC (July 18, 2013) – Today, the Senate voted to approve Thomas E. Perez’s nomination to lead the U.S. Department of Labor. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster:

“Now that he’s able to take the lead at the U.S. Department of Labor, Thomas E. Perez will be a key voice in promoting vitally important environmental and workplace protections. Working families shouldn’t have to wait months to have a Labor Secretary in place to advocate on their behalf.

“As the next Secretary of Labor, we’re confident Thomas E. Perez will be an outspoken advocate for workers’ rights and a safer workplace for millions of families. As we address and prepare for the effects of climate change, worker training and transition programs will be a necessary part of this process.

“We look forward to working with Thomas E. Perez, our next Secretary of Labor, as we seek to advance progress on the president’s climate change plan, expand clean energy and make the workplace safer and more competitive.”