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Pro-worker legislation introduced in US Congress
19 March 2009
The Employee Free Choice Act – legislation set to pave the way for better workers’ rights in the US – has been introduced in the US Congress.
Representative George Miller and Senator Tom Harkin introduced the legislation in the House and Senate on 10 March. The act makes it easier for workers to join unions and bargain for better wages, benefits and a secure retirement. It also strengthens penalties for employers who harass, intimidate or dismiss workers who try to form a union, and provides for arbitration if an employer does not bargain in good faith for a first contract.
Among the unions to welcome the move, was the ITF-affiliated International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; its president, Tom Buffenbarger said: “American workers need help now and the Employee Free Choice Act is an important step to rebuild America’s middle class and make an economy that works for everyone.
“We must ensure that Congress listens to working families and passes the Employee Free Choice Act.”
AFL-CIO polling has revealed that 73 per cent of the public supports the Employee Free Choice Act, despite intense corporate campaigning presenting distortions and falsehoods about the legislation.
The Employee Free Choice Act has enough support for a simple majority passage in the House and Senate, but faces a filibuster in the Senate. Corporations are pouring in millions of dollars to press key legislators not to support the bill.
“President Obama has pledged to sign the Employee Free Choice Act if it reaches his desk,” said Buffenbarger. “It’s time to call, write and email Congress and let them know it’s time for American working families to be listened to.”
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