Democrats Move to Pass Workers' Rights Legislation

Denver, Colorado ­ Today, Democrats in the Senate stood up for Colorado's working families by introducing the Employee Free Choice Act. This legislation would protect workers against employer interference and intimidation when forming unions. Thousands of union members, joined by labor leaders and Congressional Democrats, came together this afternoon to support legislation to support workers rights.

Under the Republican Congress and the Bush Administration, workers' freedom to form unions has been steadily eroded by lax enforcement of labor laws, cuts to organizing protections, and the Administration's interference in collective bargaining. And the President continues to threaten to veto this important legislation.

Right here in Colorado somewhere between 99,177 and 225,462 people would benefit from the Employee Free Choice Act by receiving pension and health care benefits from their union participation.

Colorado Democratic Party Chair, Pat Waak, issued the following statement:

"At a time when health care costs are skyrocketing and people are unsure about their retirement security, it's more important than ever for workers to have the right to engage in collective bargaining and to form unions free from employer intimidation. Colorado workers who join unions are more likely to have health insurance and additional benefits for long term security. Senator Allard should stand with Colorado's working families and support this legislation to improve working conditions, strengthen America's families and rebuild America's middle class."