Westbank Louisiana News

Senator Bernie Sanders, along with a coalition of Democratic leaders and labor advocates, has reintroduced the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act) in Congress. The legislation aims to bolster workers' rights to unionize and collectively bargain for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Named in honor of former AFL-CIO President Richard L. Trumka, the bill seeks to address issues related to income inequality and declining union membership.

The PRO Act is supported by prominent figures such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Rep. Bobby Scott. The proposed legislation includes provisions for stronger penalties against employers who violate workers' rights and measures to facilitate union elections and collective bargaining agreements.

"Never before in the history of our nation have income and wealth inequality been greater than today," said Sanders. He criticized past actions that hindered workers' rights, including those during Donald Trump's presidency. Sanders emphasized the importance of reinstating National Labor Relations Board Member Gwynne Wilcox to ensure fair labor practices.

Rep. Bobby Scott highlighted unions' role in building a strong middle class: "Unions are essential for building a strong middle class and improving the lives of workers and families." He urged bipartisan support for what he described as a significant update for labor organizing rights.

Chuck Schumer also voiced his support: "As we speak Donald Trump and his billionaire buddies are stealing the American dream away from working families." He stressed the need for legislative action like the PRO Act to protect workers' interests.

Senator Patty Murray pointed out current challenges faced by workers due to mass layoffs: "Right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are attacking workers." She called on lawmakers to choose between supporting billionaires or hardworking Americans seeking fair treatment.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries reiterated the Democrats' commitment to strengthening worker protections: "While Republicans are focused on giving handouts to their billionaire donors, Democrats will continue to fight."

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) expressed bipartisan support for the initiative: "I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort... A strong workforce is the foundation of a strong nation."

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler addressed issues within existing labor laws that favor corporations over workers: "Americans believe in the power of unions... But American labor law is broken." She called on elected leaders from both parties to advance this critical legislation.

Support for unions remains high among Americans, with a 2024 Gallup poll indicating 70 percent approval. However, union membership has declined significantly since 1956 due partly to attacks funded by special interests. The PRO Act aims to reverse these trends by reinforcing federal laws that protect collective bargaining rights.

The bill has garnered endorsements from over 18 organizations including major unions such as AFL-CIO, SEIU, UAW, USW, CWA, NNU among others.