Obama Smacks Down GOP Attack on Union Elections
April 2, 2015
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A streamlined and simpler election process for workers seeking a union will stand after President Obama vetoed a Republican measure that would have blocked the common sense rule changes.
The National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) new election rule, due to take effect on April 14, is designed to modernize the union certification process and stop companies from unnecessarily delaying union elections. Anti-union consultants often encourage companies to use litigation to slow down representation elections.
“Workers need a strong voice in the workplace and the economy to protect and grow our nation’s middle class,” said Obama. “Unions have played a vital role in giving workers that voice, allowing workers to organize together for higher wages, better working conditions, and the benefits and protections that most workers take for granted today. Workers deserve a level playing field that lets them freely choose to make their voices heard, and this requires fair and streamlined procedures for determining whether to have unions as their bargaining representative.”
The new rule provides for electronic filing of election petitions; ensures employees, employers and unions receive timely information; cuts down on unnecessary litigation and adopts best practices across all NLRB regions.
“President Obama is right in his commitment to vetoing this harmful legislation, and Congressional Republicans should focus their efforts on lifting workers up instead of shutting them out,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka.
Click here for President Obama’s remarks about vetoing Congress’ resolution against fair union election rules.
Click here for video remarks from President Obama.
