Article Link: "Coalition for a Democratic Workplace" 5/6/09
“Card Check” Legislation Next Labor Union Priority
With an increase in the minimum wage well on its way to enactment at press time, labor leaders, emboldened by the Democratic takeover of Congress, are beginning to focus on the next item on their agenda: “Card check” legislation that would dramatically alter the current process of union recognition.
The National Labor Relations Act, enacted more than 70 years ago, established a system to allow employees to determine whether they wish to be represented by a union through an employee secret-ballot election overseen by the National Labor Relations Board. Union leaders are making legislation to do away with this well-established secret-ballot process – a hallmark of the labor movement and of American democracy – a priority for the 110th Congress.
Instead, they want to require the National Labor Relations Board to certify a union upon receiving a petition signed by a majority of a company’s workers. This approach would deny workers the opportunity to express their decision for or against union representation in private – free from coercion and intimidation.
In previous congresses, “card check” legislation has been introduced, but not actively considered by the full House of Representatives or Senate. This year, however, the 110th Congress’s newly elected Democratic leadership has made the issue a top priority. A bill may be considered by the House of Representatives as early as this spring, and a majority of Members in that body are expected to support the legislation. Action will then turn to the Senate, where the final outcome is less clear.
Because “card check” represents the most significant and threatening legislative initiative in the labor arena in decades, business leaders, led by the United States Chamber of Commerce, are working to educate the public and Members of Congress that this policy does not represent “free choice.” In fact, by eliminating the secret ballot, “card check” actually hinders union democracy.
The IAHI is working with IHG and the American Hotel and Lodging Association to monitor this debate closely, and ensure that franchisees’ views are heard as the legislation moves forward.
To send a message to your legislator, click here.