SALT Act Introduced by Rep. Burgess Owens

Start Applying Labor Transparency (SALT) Act Introduced by Rep. Burgess Owens Protects Transparency for Workers

I4AW Praises Legislation that Would Unmask Deceptive Union Organizers Known as Salts

HAMILTON (March 21, 2024) – The Start Applying Labor Transparency (SALT) Act, introduced today by Rep. Burgess Owens, would require deceptive paid union organizers, known as salts, to file the same reporting forms as management hired labor consultants.

In the process of salting, unions pay organizers who then apply for jobs at non-union companies to unionize the employer. These union organizers then encourage their colleagues to unionize. Employers who hire these salts have no idea they are paid by unions to organize the workplace.

“Unions should make the case for representation in plain sight and let the workers decide,” said President of Institute for the American Worker F. Vincent Vernuccio. “Instead, unions are deceiving employers and the very employees they want to represent. The SALT Act would correct this loophole in federal labor law which does a disservice to workers who deserve to have all the facts before making an informed decision about union representation.”

The SALT Act would require unions to fully disclose their organizers’ identities and activities, either official or undercover, in the same manner that federal law requires transparency from employers– creating an equal playing field in union organizing efforts where workers stand to benefit the most.

I4AW stands with workers and their right to transparency when deciding on union representation- and the majority of Americans agree.  I4AW  commissioned public opinion polling in 2023 which revealed that 75% of Americans want greater transparency of salts.

Rep. Burgess Owens said in his press release: “Imagine a scenario where an employee, without the knowledge of their colleagues and employer, is receiving compensation from a union while advocating for its interests within the workplace. This deception not only breeds suspicion but also erodes the very foundation of trust and transparency between employers and employees. The SALT Act seeks to address this issue by requiring union salts to disclose their affiliation with the Department of Labor, ensuring transparency and fairness in the workplace.”

For more information on SALT Act, you can reference our I4AW backgrounder on the bill.

To speak with F. Vincent Vernuccio, please email MaryEllen@i4aw.org to set up an interview.

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Institute for the American Worker is a non-profit 501c3 organization that educates policymakers on complex labor legislation and offers policy solutions that benefit the American worker.