Faster Labor Contracts Act

Key Points

• The bill addresses a growing problem: after workers vote to unionize, it takes an average of 465 days to get a first contract. Employers can use these delays to wear down union support and get better terms for themselves.
• Under this bill, employers must begin bargaining within 10 days of getting a written request from a newly certified union. Both sides must make every reasonable effort to reach a deal.
• If no deal is reached after 90 days, either side can call in the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. If mediation does not work within 30 days, the case goes to a three-person arbitration panel that issues a binding decision lasting two years.
• The arbitration panel must weigh factors like the employer's finances, local cost of living, workers' ability to support their families, and what similar businesses pay. This gives the panel clear guidelines for setting fair contract terms.
• The bill also strengthens the duty to bargain by requiring employers to maintain current wages, hours, and working conditions while negotiations are ongoing. An employer's obligation to bargain continues unless the union is formally decertified through an election.
• The bill has bipartisan support, with sponsors from both parties. It also requires the Government Accountability Office to report within one year on how long first contracts are taking after the law is enacted.