S. 560 - Employee Free Choice Act

(U.S. Senate Version)

Fresno Chamber Position: OPPOSE

The United States Senates has had discussions about dropping the card-check provision of the bill that would require employers to recognize a union as soon as a majority of workers signed cards saying they wanted a union. While this would be progress, there are still aspects of this legislation that we oppose because it would be detrimental to employees and businesses.

The Chamber does not support any compromise on the bill that would require shorter unionization campaigns and faster elections. Having quicker elections would deny employers ample opportunity to educate employees about unions. We also do not support binding arbitration if an employer fails to reach a contract with a new union. We don’t believe it is the government’s place to dictate what wages and benefits should be offered. We believe that the current system is fair and should not be modified. It’s clear that the goal of this legislation is not about helping employees. It’s about reversing that trend by boosting union membership and forcing employees to pay mandatory dues.

The business community is committed to protecting democracy in the workplace and the rights of workers to unionize without being pressured by union management. We cannot let this legislation pass and allow our employees’ rights to be taken away.

Contact Kerri Ginis, the Chamber's Government Affairs Manager for more information at (559) 495-4818 or kginis@fresnochamber.com