Card Check
Card Check also known as "Card Signing" has always been the first step in union organizing campaigns to determine union interest. The time from petition to election has been critical for employer's to address employee questions. If EFCA (Employee Free Choice Act), currently pending legislation, is passed by Congress your voice will be virtually eliminated and union recognition will occur by the simple action of checking "Yes" on a union interest card. There will be no secret ballot election and the company will move directly to union recognition and contract negotiations. In addition, EFCA provides for binding arbitration to determine terms of a contract after only 90 days which could act as a disincentive for unions to bargain in good faith.

Employee Free Choice (EFCA) and Card Check
If the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) "card check" becomes a reality, it will allow union recognition with only a simple majority (50% + 1) even if the other 49% have no idea organizing is taking place. Signed cards are irrevocable. If the first campaign proves unsuccessful the signed cards can be used later even if it no longer reflects the signer's wishes. If there is no contract within 120 days then binding arbitration will require that you accept the contract terms dictated to you and employees by an outside party providing employees no vote on a contract. You need to prepare. TBG can provide comprehensive training to employees regarding their rights and the pitfalls of signing something they don't understand. This is not an option, it is an imperative. EFCA card signing can take place in secret off site in such a rapid manner that you could find yourself unionized with no notice. Employees are vulnerable to inflated union promises under a "card check" system which eliminates any forum for employee exploratory questions about unionization, dues, and their overall future. You owe it to your employees to provide comprehensive training so they may have the tools necessary to recognize an organizing campaign and understand what a "card" looks like and the implications of signing it. You owe them the opportunity to ask pertinent questions about dues, Beck rights, strike actions, union work rules, decertifications, seniority promotions etc. The Burke Group will provide the tools and training for all levels of management, supervisors, and employees to understand the issues, pitfalls, and communication requirements to recognize and protect your employees from card signing campaigns that, if successful, will eliminate any opportunity to explain your policies and positions regarding unions and all the possible implications for the future of the company until it is too late.

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