Checking Down Card Check

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a controversial card check bill last month that would have allowed union representatives access to any manufacturing facility and would have eliminated secret ballots on union authorization votes. This was the fourth time Schwarzenegger has vetoed this sort of legislative proposal.

Although card check legislation has been held off for another year in California, the U.S. Congress is moving forward with a nationwide plan, HR 800, called the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to passing HR 800 in September, while speaking at Labor Day rallies.

Proponents of the bill claim businesses intimidate and threaten employees to discourage unionization, and HR 800 would level the playing field. But opponents of the pro-labor bill believe it is government intrusion into private businesses. They claim a unionized workforce would drive up costs and reduce efficiency. Some major corporations have been vocal about their opposition, including Home Depot and Fedex, the latter of which said it would not go through with a $7 billion airplane purchase if EFCA passes.

What concerns me most about card check is the environment a unionized workforce creates. No longer is the company a family – as is the case with many processors – but it becomes an “us” versus “them” battle. When employees and managers turn their focus away from important issues like food safety, the result can be disastrous.

Many industries have joined together to fight card check legislation, including the produce industry, and it was one of the key issues at the United Fresh Public Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., Sept. 9-11. Those in the industry who attended had the opportunity to meet with legislative representatives to share their opinions on issues affecting the produce industry. I’m sure card check legislation came up during many of these meetings.

Unfortunately for the produce industry, there’s a good chance card check will go through at some point. There are enough supporters in Congress and the president has said he will sign the bill into law. All is not lost, however, and it’s not too late to make your voice heard. If you weren’t able to attend the United Fresh Public Policy Conference, take a few minutes to call or e-mail your representatives. And make plans to attend the conference next year to learn the most effective way to represent the produce industry before legislators.



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