Pappas Slams Trump Move to End Collective Bargaining for Federal Employees

Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee, released the following statement on the news that the Trump Administration has moved to end collective bargaining rights for a wide ranging group of federal employees, including staff at the Department of Veterans Affairs:

"This latest Executive Order is a direct attack on workers' rights to organize and collectively bargain for better wages, safe conditions, and full benefits. It will harm not only working families but also our security, defense, and the well-being of our veterans who receive benefits and care through the VA. I will fight this order and continue to do everything I can to protect workers who are under attack every day from this administration.”

“The right to collectively bargain is foundational. That's why I also support the PRO Act which will help strengthen our middle class by ensuring workers have the ability to stand together and use their collective power to negotiate. Unions built the middle class in this country and play a critical role in advocating for all American workers. I am proud to support legislation that will ensure those who put in a hard day's work have a seat at the table and a say in their future.”

Earlier this month, Congressman Pappas helped reintroduce H.R. 20, the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, a comprehensive, bipartisan proposal to protect workers’ right to come together and bargain for higher wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces.