WASHINGTON The National Restaurant Association said it was disappointed when the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill earlier today that would eliminate the use of secret ballots when employees vote whether or not to unionize their workplace.
The bill would permit the use of a "card-check" system that enables a union to organize if a majority of employees sign a card, which would be made public to the employer, union organizers and co-workers. Opponents have asserted that the lack of secrecy will subject opponents of unionization to pressure or possible retribution.
Currently, employers can demand an election so they can inform employees of their views on unionization.
Peter Kilgore, the NRA's acting president and chief executive, accused the House of rushing through the measure "in a matter of weeks without offering an opportunity for a comprehensive, fair debate."