Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today voted to uphold the power of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to streamline the union organizing process. NLRB set new rules in December that are designed to update and ease organizing efforts in the private sector. However, the House of Representatives approved a resolution today to reverse these rules. Larsen voted against the resolution.

“A strong economic foundation for our workers requires fair and secure workplaces, including the ability to unionize easily. That is why I am a staunch advocate of the NLRB and the role it plays to protect our workers’ rights. I voted against this bill that undercuts the power of the NLRB to do its job.

“Organized labor increases wages and improves the safety of working conditions, effects that ripple into the broader economy and strengthen the middle class. I will continue to make sure the board stays strong and able to preserve fair and secure work environments,” Larsen said.

Larsen voted against a bill during the previous session of Congress that would have hurt the NLRB’s decision making abilities. He continues to work to support job growth, higher wages and secure benefits for workers and families.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2014, full-time workers who were union members had a median weekly wage of $970, compared with $763 for nonunion members.

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