• Posted by:
• cmichel
• 24 Jun
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The National Labor Relations Board proposed new union rules on Tuesday that, once in effect, would significantly shorten the unionization timeline . The rules, which the NLRB “intend to reduce unnecessary litigation , streamline pre- and post-election procedures, and facilitate the use of electronic communications and document filing” are a big change to existing regulations. And they may not be very good for your business. One of the ways in which the new union rules speeds up the unionization process is by requiring the exchange of timely information, including employee contact data and required forms. They also seek to halt litigation until after an election has been held so that unnecessary proceedings don’t slow down the process. For instance, union elections are often delayed by litigation over ineligible voters. In theory, if delayed, an eligibility lawsuit won’t take place unless it numerically impacts the result. There are certainly different opinions about these rules, with unions supporting a reduction in the amount of time that businesses have to convince employees not to unionize, reports The New York Times. However, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is wary about the new union rules for the very same reason. They view the proposal as a “disguised effort to restrict the ability of employers to express their views during an election campaign,” according to the Times. If you’d like to voice your opinion on the proposed new union rules, the NLRB is currently seeking public commentary, which will close on August 22, 2011. You can electronically submit your statement here . Related Resources: New rules to speed union elections (Associated Press) Unions (FindLaw) Can My Employees Form a Union? (FindLaw’s Free Enterprise)

Excerpt from:
Proposed New Union Rules Good For Business?