Protecting the Right to Organize Act of 2021

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 842, the prounion bosses' act.

First off, Americans have the right to organize and join a union if they choose to do so, and United States law has protected this freedom for over 80 years.

My father was a machinist and a union organizer for part of his career, and I worked for a time at U.S. Steel South Works on the south side of Chicago, a union steelworker.

Unions have and can still play a valuable role in our Nation's workforce. However, any reforms we make to our labor laws should put workers first. Unfortunately, the radical, partisan legislation we are considering today grants unprecedented power to union leaders at the expense of workers.

We have seen what can happen when union leaders abuse the trust of their rank-and-file members. Most recently, a Federal investigation into the United Autoworkers revealed an extensive and long-lasting effort by two former UAW presidents and their subordinates to embezzle over $1.5 million in UAW money for their personal benefit.

Sadly, the sweeping proposals of this bill will only increase the likelihood of abuse similar.

Mr. Speaker, the hardworking families we represent deserve better than the legislation before us. Let's elevate and protect the rights of workers with a union that serves them instead of tipping the scales against them in favor of special interests and union leaders who serve themselves.

Mr. Speaker, I urge opposition to H.R. 842.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, H.R. 842 codifies the one-sided Obama-era ambush election rule, which deprives employees of the necessary time to learn about the potential implications of refraining from or joining a union.

My amendment ensures workers have appropriate time to learn the pros and cons of an enormously important decision affecting their careers, their families, and their livelihoods.

Unions often begin organizing campaigns weeks or even months before employers are made aware of this activity, creating a scenario in which workers are only hearing one side of the issue, like the other side of the Chamber today is trying to get across.

Additionally, H.R. 842 imposes a complex scheme of new regulations and penalties on employers of all sizes. Small businesses lacking internal human resources or legal departments would be most harmed by this ambush election.

Providing appropriate time for workers to hear both sides and inform themselves does not substantially change the organizing process. It merely creates a more informed electorate.

Madam Speaker, I urge support for my amendment.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source