Arturo Rizo, an experienced construction worker who recently relocated to Florida, highlights startling concerns within the state’s construction industry.
Rizo, who has spent over a decade in construction, currently works as an electrician in Miami. His observations reveal a troubling scenario: wages for skilled workers in Florida are significantly lower than those in comparable regions. “Years ago, I earned between $36 to $50 an hour in places like Las Vegas,” Rizo reports. “Here in Florida, I’m fortunate to make $20 an hour.” This salary discrepancy is a shock, especially for a state heavily reliant on construction.
Furthermore, Florida’s construction industry is fraught with safety risks. Rizo notes a concerning frequency of workplace fatalities—occurring every four days. The combination of stagnant wages and inadequate safety measures is compounded by the state’s growing environmental threats, such as hurricanes and extreme heat. Despite these challenges, little has been done to enhance safety standards for workers.
Simultaneously, housing costs in Florida have surged dramatically. Since February 2020, rental costs have increased by 45%, making it the state with the highest rise nationwide. In Miami, the average monthly rent is approximately $2,107, surpassing the national average by 35%. Rizo himself has struggled to find affordable housing, sharing a home with his daughter due to prohibitive rental prices.
A report by WeCount! sheds light on the dire conditions faced by construction workers in South Florida. It reveals that 80% of workers have experienced difficulty paying rent, and a mere 20% receive training on mitigating heat-related risks on the job. The construction workforce, predominantly composed of immigrants, is often scapegoated for industry challenges; however, these workers are integral to the sector’s success. Rizo emphasizes, “Here in South Florida, our construction workforce is 75% immigrant, and I’m proud of that fact.”
The current economic climate has led many, including Rizo, to consider relocating from Florida, exacerbating the state’s labor shortage. Despite his love for his job, Rizo stresses the urgent need for change. “Developers, elected leaders, and communities must collaborate to ensure fair wages and safety protections for workers.” Such measures are essential to maintaining a skilled workforce for future developments. His involvement with WeCount!, an organization advocating for a Community Benefits Agreement with SG Holdings, underscores his commitment to these changes.
Rizo envisions a future where construction workers are treated with dignity and fairness: “As I place lights on the balconies of future apartments in Miami, I sometimes think of my hopes for the future: that one day, those of us who labor to build this great city will be treated with the respect, fairness, and dignity that we deserve.”
In Florida, addressing labor standards in the construction industry is imperative. Ensuring fair wages and implementing robust safety measures are critical steps towards a sustainable and thriving construction sector.
Source: Sun-sentinel
