Jerome Bost currently serves as the director of government affairs and communications for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1049, one of the largest unions on Long Island, representing over 4,000 members in the electric and gas industry.
In this role, he leads government relations, community outreach, and strategic communications, supporting Pat Guidice, business manager for IBEW 1049.
Jerome has been instrumental in fostering strong relationships with local and state officials. He has effectively communicated the union’s positions on various legislative matters, ensuring that the members’ voices are heard and their interests protected.
Among his recent accomplishments, Jerome provided essential input to the legislative commission focusing on the future of the Long Island Power Authority, emphasizing the protection of IBEW Local 1049 members’ employment, benefits, collective bargaining rights, and service quality.
He also coordinated and managed the screening of candidates and elected officials for IBEW Local 1049, focusing on labor policies and union priorities.
Jerome orchestrated IBEW Local 1049 member mobilization and strategic campaigns supporting Rep. Tom Suozzi’s recent election, amplifying union voices in political processes.
Additionally, he hosted a high-profile labor breakfast featuring Rep. Donald Norcross of New Jersey, former state Assembly Labor Chair Latoya Joyner, and state Sen. Mario Mattera, fostering dialogue on key labor issues and policy initiatives.
Another legislative accomplishment Jerome is proud of is his role in assisting with getting call center legislation passed in the current legislative session.
The bill permits utility companies to establish flexible work setups for union members at approved locations and demands prior notice, public hearings, and approval from the Public Service Commission for relocating call centers out of New York State.
The bill passed the assembly and the Senate and is now awaiting the governor’s signature. This legislation protects jobs and ensures that union members have the flexibility needed to maintain a work-life balance.
Jerome is a proud member of IBEW 1049 under the leadership of Pat Guidice. Pat Guidice also serves as the chairman of the IBEW Utility Labor Council
Previously, Jerome held a position in Congressman Tom Suozzi’s office, overseeing federal agency inquiries, stakeholder communications, diversity initiatives, and veteran and military affairs projects.
His work in the Congressman’s office included managing complex casework and liaising with various governmental agencies to resolve constituent issues. Jerome’s ability to navigate the intricacies of government processes and his dedication to serving the community made him an invaluable asset to the office.
His earlier experience includes roles with the Suffolk County Legislature, where he worked under former Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory and former Clerk Jason Richberg. There, he managed programs and administered Requests for Proposals. His contributions helped advance important initiatives and fostered collaboration among legislators.
Jerome was also an honoree of the City and State’s Top 100 on Long Island for 2023 and City and State’s Who’s Who in Government Affairs for New York State 2024.
Jerome is also a member of the Suffolk County Community College Board of Trustees and serves on the United Way of Long Island Board of Directors.
Jerome graduated cum laude from Suffolk County Community College, earning an associate degree and receiving accolades such as the Get There from Here Academic Scholarship and the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.
He continued his education at St. John’s University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in government and politics with a minor in communications, supported by a full academic scholarship through the Stay on Long Island Scholarship Initiative.
In his personal life, Jerome enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Laila, a Rottweiler mix. He also loves to play chess in his free time.
Jerome continues to advocate for the rights and interests of union members, ensuring a strong and united workforce for the future.
