House Republicans Use Extreme Measure to Attack Workers’ Rights
WASHINGTON – Today, the House voted 232- 186 to weaken workers’ rights by rejecting fair union elections in the workplace. Democrats remained united with Americans and all voted against S.J. Res. 8.
“I am disappointed with today's vote in the House to take away the right of workers to form a union.” said Education and Workforce Committee Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA). “This is an extreme measure aimed at turning back the clock on worker's rights.”
S.J. Res. 8 is the result of an effort by Congressional Republicans to halt the National Labor Relations Board’s modest election rule change, using the Congressional Review Act (CRA). In the last 20 years, Congress has only invalidated one rule through the CRA process – out of 97 filed resolutions of disapproval.
This action blocks the NLRB from ensuring a just and efficient election for union representation, and would maintain a current system that is being used by unscrupulous employers to delay votes to establish unions.
“Instead of working to create jobs and build a stronger middle class, Congress is wasting time attempting to overturn a sensible rule that will ultimately save taxpayers money,” Scott emphasized. If workers ask for an election, they should get an election – not delay, not interference and not retaliation.”
S.J. Res. 8 creates several major obstacles for middle class Americans. Using the CRA prohibits the NLRB from adopting another rule in “substantially the same form,” preventing fair elections and silencing the voice of American workers. Disapproval under the CRA is an extreme act that impairs the NLRB’s ability to do its job.
“The NLRB’s election rule increases transparency, reduces frivolous litigation, and decreases the opportunity for bad actors to improperly delay union elections” said the Ranking Member.
Modernizing union elections through NLRB’s modest election rule gives a voice to hard-working Americans and provides workers with a say in their union election processes. By streamlining communication and calling for a timely exchange of information, the rule would create a clearer, more standardized process that allows workers to make their own decisions without manipulation, threats, or intimidation. The rule will save both time and money for employers, employees, unions, the NLRB, and ultimately, taxpayers.
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