Donald Norcross: “The gentleman is correct. We all want an open, competitive, and fair contracting process. The Department of Defense, as…”

“The gentleman is correct. We all want an open, competitive, and fair contracting process. The Department of Defense, as we know, is the largest government contractor--over $400 billion a year in contracts--60 percent are by the Department of Defense. This amendment would ensure that the DOD contractors are not violating labor law--things that we all agree on. They do not have the privilege of receiving taxpayer dollars if they are violating this. These taxpayer dollars should go to companies that are helping to build and strengthen our country, not tear it down. American workers are why we are the greatest country in the world. It is their strength that makes us a reality. Under this amendment, unfair labor practices are more than just an accusation, they are to be found in violation of the NLRA. The idea of having this, it has been proven you have violated--you still have an option--you settle the problem and then you can get on the bid list. Right now the Department of Defense does have that issue. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this very important amendment.”