NLRB

Floor Speech

Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I rise today to praise the National Labor Relations Board for issuing new proposed rules that will modernize the process that workers use to form a union. These new rules will improve the consistency and efficiency of the election process, protect workers' right to a timely vote, and limit opportunities for possible coercion by both employers and unions.

America's middle class is struggling. Hard-working families are finding it hard to make ends meet. We are recovering from the deepest recession since the Great Depression, and there are workers who are trying to achieve for their families what we all want: financial stability that keeps our families secure. However, as workers see their benefits, hours, and pay being cut, they feel powerless. Meanwhile, executives can and do negotiate their employment contracts. Where is the fairness?

Unions can level the playing field for workers, but the process for choosing a union is outdated. Current NRLB election procedures produce extensive delays, encourage litigious stall tactics, and provide opportunities for intimidation. Further, the organizational structure of the NLRB has created inconsistencies in the processing of the election petitions. It is time for the NLRB to address these important procedural shortcomings, and I am encouraged by their response.

The new rules do not advantage nor do they disadvantage unions. The rules merely create a uniform process for resolving pre- and post-election disputes. Both sides are given the opportunity to present arguments to allow a fair and well-informed vote. It is also important to note that these streamlining rules apply equally to both elections seeking to certify a union and elections seeking to decertify a union.

Workers deserve the right to choose a union or not to choose a union with a fair, timely, and well-informed up-or-down vote. The right to vote is central to our democracy, and we must continue to ensure that American workers are afforded this right without impediment or fear. Thus, I applaud the NLRB for their actions.

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