By Dhiren Shah
Dhiren Shah: Welcome to this interview Assemblyman Giblin. The biggest issue right now is COVID-19. In your opinion, how does the governor taking steps to control the pandemic.
Thomas Giblin: I salute the governor for his leadership. With a lot of leading programs, he has developed safeguards. He has done a remarkable job to control the coronavirus spread. He is trying to meet challenges.
DS: What is the biggest thing your constituents are concerned about with this pandemic?
TG: I think it is legislation dealing with unemployment. The numbers are staggering. We take it case by case in our district. And we work with those who are eligible for unemployment. We try to help our constituents in the best possible way.
DS: What is your take on the possible expansion of unemployment funds?
TG: I think no doubt that it helped with an additional $600 per week. It will be expiring shortly. The US Senate didn’t pass the extension for an additional $600 per week. However, they have passed unemployment from 39 weeks to 59 weeks. I have requested the commissioner of labor develop training programs for the unemployed.
Unemployed people are set to lose an additional $600 and they will be back on the market. The pace will not be the same. Atlantic City casinos will have 45,000 open jobs. Hopefully and slowly, we will be the same position as the pre-COVID-19 era.
DS: Small businesses have been hit the hardest during COVID-19. How will they get back on track?
TG: There were a wide variety of forgivable loans for small businesses. Face masks, social distancing, and an education process for people to do business will help our economy. People will not be having extra money to spend. They will not be making the same amount of money as they had a year ago, especially the restaurant, bar and café industry.
DS: Was there any plan conceived to outright suspend rent and montage payments at least for another 6 months?
TG: The legislation has already passed. I was co-sponsor of the legislation. For mortgages and foreclosures, they were given three months more time. With legislation, we gave more time for tenants as well. For those with delinquent rents under these hard circumstances, landlord protection is available. The program was geared towards the rent and landlords.
DS: Local Unions and National Unions have helped their members for a long time. In the new era, how can you help your members?
TG: There are some issues always. With educational programs, work environment changes, skills concerns, supplemental unemployment benefits, we try to help our members. With a supplemental unemployment fund, we help the members. Members put aside some funds for emergencies. If they are unemployed, the union will match the amount of a member’s unemployment check. Also, they will receive healthcare coverage and retraining programs.
DS: What are operating engineers?
TG: They work in multi-skill jobs. It’s a diversified trade union that primarily represents stationary engineers and mechanics who maintain physical plant facilities in various industries throughout the state.
DS: Let’s talk about your representation for the people as an Assemblyman. When did you first get first elected as Assemblyman?
TG: I was first elected as Assemblyman in 2005. For 10 years I was chairman of the Essex County Democratic Party.
DS: What legislation attributed to you are you most proud of?
TG: I have dealt with many issues as an Assemblyman. The minimum wage increase to $15 per hour was very important to families of the 34th District. Also, legislation to advocate work support, help out colleges and universities for their future planning.
DS: Why did you decide not to run for higher office?
TG: I ran for County Executive in 2002. I was unsuccessful against Joseph DiVincenzo. There are many issues when it comes to running for higher office. Circumstances, financial support, family and time.
DS: Did you oppose any resolution presented by Governor Murphy’s administration?
TG: If I disagree, I make amendments to the resolution and keep a good relationship.
DS: Thank you very much for your time.
TG: If constituents have any issues that are state-related, I encourage them to contact my office at 973-779-3125.
