Provider group praises anti-union legislation

A leading assisted living advocacy group applauded legislation that would reverse two recent pro-union regulations issued by the National Labor Relations Board.

Rep. John Kline (R-MN), who is the House Education and the Workforce Committee chairman, introduced the Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act  on Oct. 5. If passed, the legislation would mandate that employers have at least 14 days to get ready for pre-election cases before an NLRB election officer; ensure union elections will not be held in less than 35 days; and allow workers to choose the type of personal contact information provided to unions.

It also would reverse the NLRB's Specialty Healthcare decision, which would make it possible for workers of different classifications to be represented by multiple unions within the same long-term care facility.

The Assisted Living Federation of America has been vocal in its criticism of the NLRB decisions, arguing the rulings would increase costs for seniors living in long-term care facilities.

“Recent decisions by the NLRB clearly indicate its lack of concern for holding fair union elections respecting the rights of employees and employers,” said ALFA President and CEO Richard P. Grimes. “Chairman Kline's bill will restore much needed balance between employers and unions.”