Union leaders say NLRB ruling erects new hurdle for labor

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.kansascity.com/business/story/318659.html

By RANDOLPH HEASTER

Organized labor failed to persuade Congress to make the process of forming a union in the workplace easier this year.

A recent ruling by a federal agency will create even greater obstacles, according to union leaders.

The National Labor Relations Board in Washington recently ruled on two cases involving “card checks,” which are organizing campaigns in which an employer agrees to recognize a union if a majority of workers sign cards seeking representation. Employers remain neutral in this process, making it easier for organizers by eliminating the secret-ballot election that takes longer and gives companies time to fight the union drive.

But in two cases involving successful card-check campaigns at Midwestern automotive suppliers by the United Auto Workers, the NLRB shortened the period for workers opposed to the union to seek a decertification election. Previously, workers had to wait “a reasonable period of time” (normally six months) before they could challenge a successful card-check campaign. However, the NLRB’s lastest ruling reduced that challenge to 45 days if 30 percent of the work force signs a petition.

Under the previous ruling made 40 years ago, unions had six months to negotiate an agreement with an employer. Once a contract was reached, union opponents could not seek to oust the bargaining unit for three years.

The board said in its 3-2 ruling that it was “seeking to strike the proper balance between two important but often competing interests in the National Labor Relations Act: ‘protecting employee freedom of choice on the one hand, and promoting stability of bargaining relationships on the other.’ ”

FULL story at link.