Washington, DC - Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15), a co-sponsor of the Employee Free Choice Act, made the following comments about the introduction of the bill today:

“I want to commend Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA), Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Representative George Miller (D-CA07) for today’s introduction of the Employee Free Choice Act. This bill has tremendous support from American working families, even after an onslaught of negative publicity fueled by corporations trying to keep employees from unionizing. Unions have been a huge part of America’s rise into the world’s great economic superpower.  In fact, union workers earn 30 percent more than non-union workers.  Further, unionized workers have a much better chance of getting health care and pension benefits. Perhaps this is why some corporations have spent so much money and time busting up workers’ efforts. 

“I have joined as an original cosponsor to this important piece of legislation because it returns to workers the choice of whether to form a union either through majority signup or a National Labor Relations Board election. The bill would also strengthen penalties for violations against workers who are trying to organize or negotiate a first contract, and ensure all parties negotiate a first contract in good faith. This bill will make it easier to unionize and protect the privacy of workers afraid of repercussions. 

“Long ago my father was fired for union activities.  It is my hope that this is the Congress that we pass Employee Free Choice Act and finally put an end to the fear of wrongful termination.”