USW Rapid Response:
Leading the Way on the Employee Free Choice Act!

The Employee Free Choice Act is at a critical point.  A majority of lawmakers in the House and Senate are supportive.  The President is willing to sign it into law.  But, in the Senate, a process exists to talk a bill to death – “the filibuster” – and a Republican-led effort to kill the bill through this process is planned.  To stop a filibuster, 60 votes are needed.  We are just short of that goal. 

As disappointed as we are with the Senators who have not stepped up in this fight, we are not letting up for a minute. 

USW Activists in Key States Working Hard

Right now, USW members are continuing to keep up the pressure.  In places like Pennsylvania, Arkansas and California, USW members are being asked to take action again and again to target those Senators who haven’t yet given their support for the Employee Free Choice Act.  This fight is coming down to a few key places across the country.

Senators Meeting to Address Issues; Vote Could Occur Within Weeks

While we’re working on the ground, there is a group of Senators meeting to look at alternatives to the bill.  We don’t know what the outcome of these talks will produce, but we remain committed to passing real labor law reform.  Senator Harkin, who is leading this fight as Senator Kennedy deals with health issues, has vowed to either find a solution that works to get to 60 votes, or force those unsupportive Senators to take a vote on the original measure.  This way, we know where they stand come election time.  Either way, the vote could occur this summer, possibly within weeks.

As this situation continues to play out, we will keep you posted on any major developments.  Thank you to everyone for being so diligent over the years on this issue.  And, for those of you in key states, thank you for continuing to fight for all of us for justice in the workplace.