rich 1.0 Action Network https://actionnetwork.org <link href='https://actionnetwork.org/css/style-embed-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' /><script src='https://actionnetwork.org/widgets/v6/letter/protect-workers-seeking-to-form-a-union?format=js&source=widget'></script><div id='can-letter-area-protect-workers-seeking-to-form-a-union' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --></div> Connecticut AFL-CIO https://actionnetwork.org/groups/connecticut-afl-cio https://actionnetwork.org//images/generic_facebook.jpg In 2018, half of nonunion workers said they would join a union if given the opportunity to do so. Following the Great Resignation, that number is likely much higher, as workers across the country, including scores of them in Connecticut, are currently attempting to organize unions. Yet workers still struggle to form unions. Our labor laws are badly broken. The penalties employers face for violating the law are so weak that many write them off as the cost of doing business to disempower workers. Organizing workers are also subjected to captive audience meetings. These are mandatory, closed-door meetings during work hours where workers are often threatened and harassed about their union support. Workers can be disciplined or fired if they don’t attend. One nurse was put in a hospital supply closet with the manager’s back to the door. Another worker was threatened that the company may close their store if they join a union. Management will surveil workers and implement other strategies to attempt to scare workers. In Connecticut, we have an opportunity to protect workers who seek to form a union. Senate Bill 163 will give a worker the right – when the subject of a meeting is about the employer’s position on politics (including union organizing) or religion – to stop listening and return to work without fear of being disciplined or terminated. Urge your legislators to support SB 163, which will protect organizing workers from coercive captive audience meetings. https://act.aflcio.org/letters/protect-workers-seeking-to-form-a-union