PRO Act: A Game Changer for Workers and the Economy
2min read The Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) has thrown its weight behind the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, a significant piece of legislation that aims to strengthen collective bargaining rights for workers. The TWU's endorsement is a testament to the bill's potential to transform the labor landscape and boost the economy.
“It is time for Congress to step up and support workers,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “Republicans and Democrats alike talk a good game about supporting working people – signing onto the PRO Act and working to pass it into law shows which lawmakers will back up their words with action.”
The PRO Act, first introduced in 2019 and reintroduced in 2021, 2023, and 2025, has garnered bipartisan support, including from President Donald Trump’s Labor Secretary nominee Lori Chavez-DeRemer. The bill has passed the House of Representatives in 2019 and 2021 and has advanced out of committee in the Senate in 2023.
The PRO Act seeks to ban employer interference in union elections, end mandatory anti-labor meetings during organizing drives, allow newly certified unions to seek binding arbitration and mediation when employers fail to negotiate a first contract in good faith, eliminate so-called “right to work” laws, and penalize employers and corporate executives who violate workers’ rights.
If enacted, the PRO Act could have a profound impact on the broader economy. Here's how:
- Increased Wages and Benefits: The PRO Act aims to strengthen unions, which have historically been associated with higher wages and better benefits for workers. According to the Economic Policy Institute, workers in unions earn 11.2% more than nonunion workers, and 94% of union workers have employer-provided health insurance, compared to 68% of nonunion workers. By empowering workers to negotiate better terms, the PRO Act could lead to a more equitable distribution of income and wealth, potentially reducing economic inequality.
- Improved Job Quality and Working Conditions: Unions often negotiate for better working conditions, such as paid sick days, retirement benefits, and protections against discrimination. The PRO Act could help workers secure these improvements, leading to a more skilled and productive workforce. For instance, 91% of union workers have access to paid sick days, compared to 73% of nonunion workers.
- Potential Impact on Small Businesses: While the PRO Act aims to protect workers, some argue that it could inadvertently harm small businesses. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has stated that the act would “undermine worker rights, ensnare employers in unrelated labor disputes, disrupt the economy, and force individual Americans to pay union dues regardless of their wishes.” However, it's essential to note that the PRO Act includes provisions to prevent small businesses from being captured by the legislation, such as exemptions for businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
- Potential Impact on Innovation and Flexibility: Some industries, such as tech, media, and delivery services, rely heavily on flexible labor. The PRO Act's ABC test for independent contractors could potentially limit this flexibility, leading to slower innovation in these sectors. However, it's crucial to consider that the PRO Act also includes provisions to protect independent contractors, such as exemptions for certain professions and industries.
- Potential Impact on Consumer Costs: Businesses forced to hire contractors as employees could raise prices to cover additional expenses, potentially hurting consumers. However, it's essential to weigh this against the potential benefits of increased worker bargaining power, such as higher wages and better working conditions.
In conclusion, the PRO Act, if enacted, could have a significant and positive impact on the broader economy. By strengthening collective bargaining rights for workers, the PRO Act could lead to increased wages and benefits, improved job quality and working conditions, and a more equitable distribution of income and wealth. However, it's essential to consider the potential unintended consequences for small businesses, innovation, and consumer costs. As the TWU's endorsement demonstrates, the PRO Act is a critical piece of legislation that deserves the support of lawmakers and the American people.