Bargaining Bill Supported by Majority in House

May 29, 2007 -- IAFF legislation to ensure collective bargaining rights for all fire fighters has won the support of a clear majority in the U.S. House of Representatives -- 229 of the 440 members of the House have signed on as cosponsors. The bill continues to enjoy strong, bipartisan support with 60 Republicans joining 169 Democrats on the bill.

“Having Republicans and Democrats from every region of the country come together in support of a labor bill is nothing short of extraordinary,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. “This achievement is a testament to the tireless efforts of IAFF affiliate leaders across the nation.”

Although no formal timetable has been set for congressional action, having a majority signed onto the legislation will expedite consideration. IAFF leaders are hoping the Committee on Education and Labor will take up the bill in June, and that the full House of Representatives can vote on the bill before the month-long August congressional recess.

“We are increasingly optimistic that this bill can pass overwhelmingly with a minimum of controversy,” says IAFF Assistant to the General President Kevin O’Connor. “Strong GOP support will help insulate the bill against the attacks often leveled against labor bills by anti-union extremists.”

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