PERSPECTIVE: Ending secret union ballot is a mistake

Among other things expected to occupy Congress and Barack Obama next year will be legislation known as the Employee Free Choice Act, a name that strikes some, including Del.

[Sad but True]

There are three provisions to the Employee Free Choice Act. The first provision is that of card-check elections. The second involves the use of arbitration in first contract disputes and the third increases damages for employer unfair labor practices. This Act is being implemented to bring an end to gross employer violations of the NLRA, most notably discriminatory firings. Sadly, the card-check provision is the most controversial and unnecessary provision of this Act. If we do away with the card-check provision but pass the other two provisions of this bill, most of labors problems will be cured. The union organizing process and secret-ballot election process can remain intact. Illegal employer actions designed to derail organizing or the election process will come to an end when they face the increased sanctions imposed by the EFCA. In my opinion we are in dire need of labor reform but the controversial card-check provision stands to kill this bill.

[Democrat]

American Unions are doomed anyway, unless we can finally compete in the global economy. We can't continue to make artificially high wages when our products or services just can't compete in the market.

[Sad but True]

American unions have a choice. They can adapt to the issues that come with Globalization or you are correct, they will probably go by the wayside. There is no reason our unions can’t give a little on work rules. The union/management relationship is supposed to be about negotiation and give & take. Without a commitment to work together you’ll end up with a bad situation. Both union and management will have to work together to address both Globalization and the downturn in our economy and yes that probably means concessions.