ATR Urges Removal of Labor Riders in House Omnibus
Click to download official letter
December 17, 2007
Dear Representative,
I am writing to express extreme concern and opposition to adding any riders to the current Omnibus which will prevent the Office of Labor Management Standards (OLMS) from having the tools necessary to carry out their duties in accordance with the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959.
Specifically, Democrats in the House contend this would be a relatively “clean” Omnibus – as of now, this will not be the case. Now, by adding restrictions on the implementation of the conflict of interest reporting form, the LM-30, and other measures that could potentially prevent the OLMS from doing their job, this Omnibus will be clouded with measures that prevent fiscal transparency and accountability of labor unions.
Further, with the recent budget cuts at the OLMS, despite their audits leading to over 780 convictions since 2001, and more that $100 million in restored dues, this Congress is teetering on undercutting worker freedom at every chance.
The OLMS, by monitoring union financial activity, ensures that rank-and-file union members’ dues are being spent honestly and with their best interest in mind.
Therefore, I am urging all members of the House to oppose any and all riders to the current Omnibus that prevents the OLMS from carrying out their duties, as disclosed by law, including the implementation of all necessary financial disclosure forms.
Onward,
Grover G. Norquist
