Labor leaders say they’ll lobby state lawmakers to OK New York Mayor Bill de Blasio’s proposal to offer universal pre-kindergarten.

Leaders of several major unions joined de Blasio Monday at a news conference to announce the push.

De Blasio took office Jan. 1. The proposal for universal pre-k, plus expanded after-school programs for middle-schoolers, was a centerpiece of the Democrat’s campaign.

Vincent Alvarez is president of the city’s Central Labor Council. He calls the proposal “critical to tens of thousands of working New Yorkers.”

De Blasio wants to pay for it by raising taxes on wealthy New Yorkers. Such a tax hike needs state Legislature approval.

De Blasio says labor leaders’ “efforts will make a huge impact.”

A coalition of business leaders, clergy members and academics also supports the effort.

(AP)