House approves bill to ease union organization

Friday, March 2, 2007  

The Democratic controlled House 241 to 185 to approve H.R.800, a bill that makes it easier for unions to organize.

The Employee Free Choice Act eliminates the need for the National Labor Relations Board to oversee union elections. Unions only need to obtain "cards" from a simple majority of employees to organize.

Every Democrat except two voted for the bill. Voting against were Rep. Dan Boren, whose district in Oklahoma has the highest percentage of Native Americans in the county, and Rep. Gene Taylor, who represents the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians [Roll Call].

Republicans in the Senate plan to block the bill. President Bush has said he will veto it if it reaches his desk.

Get the Story:
Bill Easing Organization Of Unions Passes House (The Washington Post 3/2)
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House Passes Bill That Helps Unions Organize (The New York Times 3/2)
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D.C. Circuit Decision:
San Manuel Band v. National Labor Relations Board (February 9, 2007)

San Manuel Band v NLRB:
Briefs, Decisions and Documents (Native American Rights Fund)

National Labor Relations Board Decisions:
San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino | Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation

Relevant Links:
National Labor Relations Board - http://www.nlrb.gov

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