OPINION:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce claims that a National Labor Relations Board proposal to modernize and streamline union elections would tilt the playing field in favor of organized labor (“NLRB proposes fast-tracking union votes,” Web, June 21). The truth is the NLRB proposal is a modest, long-overdue step to restore fairness to the system.
The current system allows unscrupulous employers to delay union elections, stretching out the time during which they can intimidate and coerce workers. One-third of employers fire workers during organizing drives, and threats are commonplace.
Under the proposed rule, employers would still have plenty of opportunities to share their views. They would continue to have unfettered access to workers throughout the workdays leading up to an election, as well as during the months and years that might precede an organizing drive.
Millions of people today are struggling to make ends meet, and unions have always provided one of the surest paths to financial security. This rule change could enable more working families to join the middle class, which is critical to keeping our country and economy strong.
JAIME CONTRERAS
Capital Area Director
Service Employees International Union, 32BJ
Washington
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