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. This bipartisan legislation is designed to help workers secure their first union contract more quickly.
The IAM Union said that collective bargaining is a basic right protected by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), but many newly formed unions face long delays before reaching their first agreement with management. The union argues that these delays undermine efforts 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 NLRA for reaching an initial contract between unions and employers, which allows negotiations to be delayed for months or even years while existing workplace conditions remain unchanged. According to Bloomberg Law, it takes an average of 458 days for unions and employers to reach a first agreement.
Bryant also 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.”
Supporters say passage of this act could have broad implications for labor relations by reducing negotiation delays and ensuring newly organized workers see tangible results from forming a union.
