If The Pipe Fits: NYS Pipe Trades Endorse Terrence Murphy

GLENS FALLS, NY - With a proud history that dates back over a hundred years, The New York State Pipe Trades has come to represent 30,000 unionized plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters and sprinkler fitters throughout the state.

Citing Terrence Murphy's sterling record as an advocate for union workers, the New York State Pipe Trades is proud to endorse him for the New York State Senate in the 40th District.

"I am humbled to receive this endorsement and stand with the members of the New York State Pipe Trades, whose history reflects what America is all about - a chance for everyone to succeed, respect for your community, and love for your family," said Senator Murphy. "I look forward to building upon our successful relationship as we work together to continue to provide access to good-paying jobs, health care benefits and workplace protections."

The endorsement was announced by John J. Murphy, the union's International Representative for New York State. "I am proud to announce our endorsement of Terrence Murphy for Senate today. As a labor leader I have worked with Senator Murphy on issues to improve the lives of my members and our communities. His values align with everything that union households stand for; good jobs that provide benefits, training and a pension to protect our families now and in their retirement years. We know we can count on him to help working families."

"As the President of the New York State Pipe Trades I am proud of our endorsement of Terrence Murphy," stated Greg Lancette, the union's statewide President. "He has listened to our concerns and has been a strong advocate for us in Albany. Senator Murphy has been a strong supporter of a balanced approach to energy, infrastructure and clean water."

The parent Union of Local # 773 in New York, the history of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada can be traced back to before the Civil War, when plumbers and pipefitters were organized in many major cities throughout the United States. The first strong, long-lasting local Unions were established in the boom construction decade between 1879-1889, when United States population growth accelerated.

In the first half of the 20th century, the United Association moved to formalize apprenticeship training programs, including making a five-year apprenticeship mandatory in 1921, and in 1938 holding that all apprentices be members of the United Association and attend related training classes. Its National Plumbing Apprenticeship Plan of 1936 was the first set of standards governing apprenticeship to win approval of the federal government.

Throughout World War II and after, the United Association made considerable gains in membership and prestige. The organization changed its name to The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada in 1946. Between 1940 and 1954 membership surged from 60,000 to 240,000 with veterans entering the skilled craftsmen field.

The New Frontier of President John F. Kennedy and Great Society of President Lyndon Johnson were movements supported by the United Association. With expanded training programs beginning in 1956, the UA was able to meet the demands of accelerated construction activity in the 1960s. With the increased work the slogan, "There is no substitute for UA skilled craftsmen" became widespread throughout the industry. By 1971 the UA was 320,000 strong.

This marks the fourth major endorsement of Murphy's reelection campaign. UWUA Local 1-2 now join the Lake Mohegan Professional Firefighters and Teamsters Local 456 have already announced their support of Senator Murphy.