Panel Clears Organizing Bill, But Veto Is Threatened
Legislation that would make it easier for labor unions to mount workplace organizing drives is advancing in Congress as expected. The union-backed “Employee Free Choice Act” cleared a House committee on Feb. 14. But on the same day, Vice President DIck Cheney cheered the measure’s industry opponents when he pledged that President Bush would veto the bill if it gains final congressional approval.
The measure, which the House Education and Labor Committee approved by a 26-19 vote is a top priority for organized labor. It sees improved chances for passage with Democrats now in control of both chambers of Congress. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney said the legislation “levels the playing field to give workers a fighting chance to bargain for better wages and benefits.”