Asa Hutchinson: “As a mid-west based retailer, we care deeply about the communities we serve. As a corporate citizen, we want them to…”

“As a mid-west based retailer, we care deeply about the communities we serve. As a corporate citizen, we want them to grow and thrive. That is why we are pleased to contribute to so many local programs. However, since 1994, we have been prevented from providing certain support to charitable and civic organizations due to language contained in the National Labor Relations Act. The language stipulated that if we provided access to our property to outside groups, then we would also be required to provide access to union organizations for the purposes of organizing, solicitation, distribution, picketing or other union purposes. Clearly, we believe there to be a difference between charitable and civic groups, and union activity. Additionally, while Americans have generously responded to our national crises, we are beginning to learn how local and state-based charities are beginning to suffer. We believe that your amendment is well suited for this present time, and will permit us to work with such worthy causes. This is very simple. The issue is simple and clear.”