“Card Check” Bill Forces Congress to Address Workers’ Rights
By Cara | April 7, 2009
via Congress.org -.
When lawmakers return the week of April 20, they’re sure to face a fight over whether to make it easier for workers to unionize. The “Employee Free Choice Act” would allow employees to join a union if a majority of workers sign a card signifying their intent to do so.
It would also provide other workers’ rights. Critics say the legislation, which is often referred to as “card check,” would eliminate the secret ballot for union elections, making it easier for labor groups to intimidate workers. They also say more power for the unions would hurt business at a time when the economy is suffering. Backers say an empowered work force will increase wages and raise the standard of living for many workers.
A similar bill passed the House in 2007 but stalled in the Senate. This time it is once again expected to have enough votes to pass the House easily, but getting the 60 votes it needs to overcome a possible filibuster in the Senate could be difficult. One big difference between now and last time: President Barack Obama supports the measure; George W. Bush didn’t.
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