On the recordSeptember 20, 2019
I thank my friend from Rhode Island, a great champion for consumers, for yielding. Madam Chair, I rise in support of the FAIR Act to protect Americans from forced arbitration agreements. These agreements, too often, are the result of power imbalances that block claims from judicial remedies in employment, consumer, antitrust, and civil rights disputes. The FAIR Act is critical for protecting the rights of women, in particular, who have faced gender discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace. We have all heard the disturbing reports of tens of thousands of women employed at one large company who alleged that they were paid less than their male colleagues. They were passed over for promotions to management positions multiple times in favor of men with less experience. They faced unwanted sexual advances and attempted assault at company meetings. At least one Floridian was fired after she reported one of her superiors tried to kiss and touch her against her will. Employees who face mistreatment deserve justice and they deserve their day in court. Making forced arbitration a condition of employment takes away their day in court and it frustrates the pursuit of justice. The CHAIR. The time of the gentleman has expired.
