OPPOSES SO-CALLED "EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT," WHICH UNDERMINES PRIVACY OF AMERICAN WORKERS

Washington, Mar 1, 2007 - "It is important to protect the privacy of the American people, safeguarding them from identity theft, ensuring medical record privacy, and preserving the secret ballot," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "Unfortunately, the leadership in Congress is bowing to the demands of big labor rather than protecting the privacy of American workers."

The House approved today H.R. 800, which relieves workers of their right to privacy in union organization elections. Explained Stearns, "This legislation, the ill-named Employee Free Choice Act, implements mandatory 'card checks,' in which union leaders gather authorization cards signed by workers expressing support for union representation and makes the proceeding completely public. Instead of card checks, union recognition should be based on a secret ballot cast by the workers." Relying on card checks instead of secret ballots leave workers vulnerable to pressure, coercion, and even intimidation.