CDW Calls for Rulemaking Extension and Additional NLRB Hearings

WASHINGTON, D.C. // July 6, 2011 // Today, the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace (CDW) and major employer representatives called on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to extend the comment period by 90 days on a proposed rule that would have wide-ranging ramifications for as many as six million workplaces.

The rulemaking, recently announced by the NLRB, would institute “quickie” or “ambush” elections by dramatically shortening the period of time employers have to communicate with employees about the union campaign and limiting the ability of employers to address key legal concerns.

CDW signed the joint motion along with other organizations, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, Associated Builders and Contractors, HR Policy Association, and the Society for Human Resource Management. The request asks the Board to allow comments to be accepted until November 21, 2011, allow for adequate time for response comments, postpone a hastily called hearing set for July 18 and 19, and add as many as four additional hearing dates to allow for broad stakeholder participation.

“The Board has embarked upon a reckless plan to enact Big Labor’s agenda at the expense of employers and employees,” said Geoffrey Burr, chairman of CDW. “The very least the NLRB could do is give the semblance of a proper comment period to reflect the gravity of this threat to workplace democracy.”

Burr concluded, “The President has stated his administration believes good government requires proper reflection. It appears the NLRB just didn’t get the memo.”

A copy of the motion can be found at MyPrivateBallot.com