Westbank Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a report today alleging that President Biden has used his executive authority over U.S. labor and employment policy to benefit large labor unions at the expense of American workers.

The report cites several Biden administration policies as examples:

- The Department of Labor’s (DOL) final independent contractor rule, which reportedly dismantles the gig economy and impacts 27 million Americans working as independent contractors. According to Cassidy, eliminating this worker classification is a priority for labor unions since independent contractors are exempt from unionization.

- The National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) new joint employer rule, which Cassidy claims threatens the franchise business model employing over nine million Americans. He references the International Franchise Association's data indicating that similar policies under the Obama administration resulted in significant financial losses for small businesses and job opportunities.

- DOL’s final overtime rule, which increases the overtime pay threshold by 65 percent. Cassidy argues this will eliminate jobs and raise prices for American families.

- NLRB’s decision affecting secret ballot elections in unionization processes by potentially renewing "card check." Additionally, another NLRB rule condenses the timeframe for union elections to as little as three weeks after a petition is filed, which Cassidy suggests hinders employers' ability to respond adequately.

The report also criticizes efforts to promote unionization in workplaces:

- A DOL policy requiring businesses to produce information related to union activity beyond its scope.

- DOL’s “walkaround” rule allowing union officials into non-unionized workplaces during OSHA inspections.

- A new H-2A regulation promoting unionization among temporary foreign workers by granting union officials access to workplaces and employer-sponsored housing. Cassidy argues this may deter small farmers from participating in the H-2A visa program, worsening labor shortages and increasing food prices.

Additionally, the report notes a reduction in oversight of union activities with the rescission of a Trump-era rule mandating transparency in unions' financial dealings.

“The Biden administration’s attempts to serve its political allies is a shortsighted strategy that harms workers more than it helps labor unions,” wrote Dr. Cassidy. “These actions have stalled economic growth and disadvantaged American workers – including the millions who choose not to unionize.”

“Employees deserve safe workplaces, all information before crucial union votes, proper oversight of both employers and unions, and a fair election process,” continued Dr. Cassidy. “The advancement of policies that tip the scale proves the Biden administration’s agenda has never been about the American worker but instead hand-outs to political allies.”

For further details or updates from HELP Republicans, visit their website or Twitter at @GOPHELP.