Norm Coleman is getting some big-bucks support from a couple of corporate financed groups organized to oppose the Employee Free Choice Act : (HR800, S1041– To amend the National Labor Relations Act to establish an efficient system to enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, to provide for mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts, and for other purposes.)
The Coalition for a Democratic Workplace is presenting Minnesota TV viewers with a message from the Sopranos’ Vincent Curatola (Johnny “Sack” Sacramoni). He warns them that Al Franken supports the Employee Free Choice Act that will open workers to intimidation by unions and the “Mafia.” A reality check of this TV message by WTTO can be seen here.
In a second attack, Minnesotans for Employee Freedom ran full page, front section ads in the Minneapolis Star Tribune and St. Paul Pioneer Press on July 10. The ad states that Al Franken supports a bill that would force Minnesota workers into unions by eliminating their right to a provate ballot vote. The insinuation is that workers will be intimidated by the union.
The problem with both ads is they are based on distortions and lies. The Employee Free Choice Act is actually the opposite of what they claim — it is being amended to allow workers to organize without being intimidated by their employers as is the case today.
The amendment adds several worker safeguards that are missing from the current legislation and would level the playing field for workers and employers and help rebuild America’s middle class. It:
- Establishes stronger penalties for violation of employee rights when workers seek to form a union and contract negotiations.
- Provides mediation and arbitration for first-contract disputes.
- Allows employees to form unions by signing cards authorizing union representation.
So, where does Norm Coleman stand on this? He is on record as being against the legislation. But, where does he stand on TV and newspapers items that are not truthful, even when they are intended to help his election?
We probably know, but he could always surprise us. What about it, Norm? Are you with the corporate interests or with the workers of Minnesota?
