Lois Capps: “An original cosponsor of the Employee Free Choice Act, I rise in strong support of the bill. Last November, Americans…”

“An original cosponsor of the Employee Free Choice Act, I rise in strong support of the bill. Last November, Americans responded to our commitment to change, and voted in the new Democratic majority. Last month we affirmed that commitment by voting to increase the minimum wage--the first increase in over a decade. Today, we further that commitment by helping to increase access to health care, better pay, and better retirement benefits for millions of American workers by passing the Employee Free Choice Act. America's workforce desperately needs our help. During this period of so-called economic growth, American workers have seen their incomes flat-line while the salaries of the wealthiest one percent have skyrocketed. They have seen the costs of basic necessities such as health care, education, transportation, food and housing rise while the number of quality jobs falls. The Employee Free Choice Act will help narrow this growing income disparity by making it easier for American workers to unionize if they so choose. Statistics show that unionized workers earn higher wages, have greater access to health care, and receive better retirement benefits. This bill will level the playing field and help narrow the growing income gap that is plaguing our Nation. The ability of workers to unionize is a fundamental right that must be protected. While many employers treat their workers fairly, and respect their right to unionize, many more do not.”