WASHINGTON, March 13 (UPI) -- Everyone must work together to ensure the labor force can help grow the economy during the current crisis, U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis said Friday.
Workers must be helped by prioritizing job training and assistance, Solis said during her swearing-in ceremony in Washington, because retooling the U.S. workforce "not only helps workers but supports high-growth industries by ensuring they have the adequate skills that workers need."
Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath of office to Solis.
The former California congresswoman reiterated her goal to ensure workers receive a wage they deserve, are treated fairly, and enjoy a safe and healthy workplace.
"To those who have for too long abused workers, put them in harm's way, denied them fair pay, let me be clear, there is a new sheriff in town," she said.
Workers also must have the information they need to make good decisions about retirement investments, Solis said.
Finally, she said the Labor Department "must assure the door of opportunity is open to every American."
"And the fact that I'm standing before you today as a child of an immigrant family, a working family is proof that, in America, anything is possible," she said.
