What is the Employee Free Choice Act?
The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) is a proposed federal law that would make it easier for workers to unionize. Under the EFCA, workers could join a union by signing up with majority support of their coworkers, rather than having to go through the traditional process of a secret ballot election. This law would also provide employers with the option to voluntarily recognize a union upon majority approval of workers, and establish mediation and arbitration for businesses and unions to resolve first contract impasses. In the state of Hawaii, labor relations law is regulated by the Hawaii Labor Relations Board. The Board is responsible for investigating and resolving any disputes or unfair labor practices between employers and employees. The Board also administers labor relations laws, including the collective bargaining process. Though the EFCA has not yet become a law in Hawaii, the Board does provide guidance to employers and employees regarding collective bargaining procedures and disputes in the union context. The EFCA could potentially have a major impact on labor relations in Hawaii, as it would make it easier for workers to organize and negotiate collective bargaining agreements with employers. The Board has yet to release any official position on the EFCA, but it is likely to be an important issue for the Board in the years to come.
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