March 07, 2023

Congress Reintroduces Protecting the Right to Organize Act

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Reps. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act (H.R. 20 in the House), which would restore the right of workers to freely and fairly form a union and bargain together for changes in the workplace.

The legislation, named for the former AFL-CIO president who died in 2021, would strengthen the middle class and improve retirement security. Union workers have higher wages and can negotiate for benefits such as health care and employer contributions to retirement plans. Union jobs are also more likely to come with negotiated defined benefit pensions, which ensure lifelong retirement income.

“The Alliance wholeheartedly endorses the PRO Act to restore fairness to the economy, because it strengthens the federal laws that protect workers’ right to join a union and it improves retirement security for millions,” said President Roach. “It is the most significant piece of pro-worker, pro-retiree legislation in Congress and it remains a top priority for Alliance members.”