Texas House Bill HCR64

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 2/20/09
• Refer: 3/2/09

Caption

Urging the Congress of the United States to oppose any efforts to adopt the Employee Free Choice Act or any similar legislation.

Impact

The resolution outlines that the EFCA would have substantial impacts on the bargaining process and the employer-employee dynamic. It stipulates that upon union certification, companies would be compelled to negotiate a contract within a limited timeframe, after which disputes would be resolved through binding arbitration. Critics contend this approach jeopardizes the autonomy of both employers and employees by placing contract negotiations in the hands of an arbitrator with potentially limited knowledge of the specific business. This could lead to unfavorable conditions for both parties if an arbitrator's ruling does not align with the company's operational realities.

Summary

HCR64 urges the Congress of the United States to oppose the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) and similar legislation, highlighting significant concerns regarding the potential alterations to labor relations in the workplace. The resolution suggests that the EFCA threatens to undermine the existing secret ballot elections process for union representation, which currently safeguards workers' privacy and reduces coercion. Proponents argue that the shift from secret elections to a system allowing unions to certify based on signed authorization cards could lead to increased pressure on employees reluctant to unionize. This change raises fears of intimidation and harassment by union organizers, who could exploit vulnerable workers.

Contention

The bill positions its arguments within a broader socio-economic context, claiming that the enactment of the EFCA could stifle economic growth by fostering an environment of uncertainty that discourages business investment. Concerns were raised regarding the act's characterization as an enhancement of employees' rights, with opponents branding it as a misnomer that effectively undermines genuine worker protections. The resolution urges federal representatives to consider the long-term repercussions of such labor legislation, particularly concerning jobs, growth, and overall workplace freedom. Various stakeholders, including business representatives and labor organizations, may have differing opinions on the effectiveness and necessity of this act.