It appears, at least for now, that reality is having an impact on what is a very full labor agenda in Washington DC. According to Washington insiders, political ground is shifting under labor’s agenda, including their number goal, passage of the so-called Employee “Free Choice” Act (EFCA also referred to as “Card Check”). Unions poured unprecedented money and manpower into getting Democrats elected who would pay back by supporting EFCA, a bill that would eliminate secret ballot elections and provide unions an advantage convincing workers to join unions. The conventional wisdom was that the Obama Administration and the Democratic majority would prioritize its passage. It now seems the Obama team plans to devote its opening months to more important issues, like the economy. Interestingly the bigger democratic majority may now be hurting them. With their majority control, the potential to overcome a filibuster, and no longer having a president ready with a veto if EFCA passes, democrats are worried that they may actually have to pass this flawed legislation, infuriating voters and businesses back home (more than 80% of Americans disagree with eliminating union secret ballots). Also, it would not be a popular vote with visions of the United Auto Workers bailout fresh in voters’ minds.

Credit for this new environment goes to a business community, including ABC, that has been unified in a campaign against the bill. However, none of this is to suggest that EFCA is dead or will not be acted upon early. ABC will continue to educate members and the public about EFCA. We will also be providing valuable information to support employers’ efforts with their employee relations during these changing economic times. Watch your ABC communications for program announcements and do not hesitate to contact ABC with any questions.