Secret Ballot Protection Act

This bill requires workers to choose union representation through a secret-ballot vote run by the National Labor Relations Board. It says unions cannot be recognized or bargain unless a majority of employees choose them in a secret vote, rather than through private agreements. The bill’s findings say secret ballots help protect workers from pressure or intimidation.

It also requires a secret-ballot vote if workers want to remove a union. Current union relationships stay the same; the new rules apply going forward. The Board must update its rules within six months after the law takes effect.

• Who is affected: Workers, unions, and employers covered by the National Labor Relations Act.
• What changes: Union recognition and removal must be decided by secret-ballot elections; it is an unfair practice to seek recognition without a secret-ballot majority.
• When: Existing union relationships are not affected; the Board updates its rules within six months of enactment.