The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) called on members of Congress on April 20 to sign U.S. Representative Donald Norcross’s discharge petition, which would force a vote on the Faster Labor Contracts Act. The bipartisan legislation is intended to help workers secure their first union contract more quickly by addressing delays in collective bargaining.
Collective bargaining rights are protected under the National Labor Relations Act, but many newly formed unions experience lengthy waits before reaching an initial agreement with management. This can affect workers’ ability to improve wages, hours, and working conditions.
“The ability to collectively bargain a contract with their employer is central to why workers in growing numbers are exercising their right to form and join unions,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Securing a first contract is perhaps the most important part of collective bargaining – and it is also often the hardest. Employers know they can drag their feet and demoralize workers. This Faster Labor Contracts Act changes that dynamic by making union-busting employers actually come to the table.”
Currently, there is no set timeline under the National Labor Relations Act for reaching a first contract after unionization. This lack of deadlines allows some employers to delay negotiations for extended periods while maintaining existing workplace conditions. According to Bloomberg Law, it takes an average of 458 days for unions and employers in the United States to reach an initial agreement.
Bryant said, “The IAM Union applauds Congressman Norcross and his allies in Congress for taking this needed step to advance the Faster Labor Contracts Act helping workers obtain a too often elusive first contract.”
