Alabama lawmakers could harm unions and state economy with SB 231

Adam Keller, Co-Host of The Valley Labor Report and Trustee for the North Alabama Area Labor Council, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Alabama Senate Bill 231. Keller also discussed the recent outreach efforts he hosted with the Labor Council and a member of the Economic Policy Institute (EPI).

Recently Alabama’s Legislature held a hearing to discuss SB 231. Keller, who attended the hearing, discussed how SB 231 could harm labor relations in the state and the anti-union efforts during the hearing. The bill would penalize companies by prohibiting state incentives for any company that voluntarily recognizes a union. Keller discussed the out-of-state interest groups that have supported the bill and how it relates to recent bills passed in Georgia and Tennessee with similar penalties.

Keller also discussed voluntary recognition and how SB 231 could be deemed illegal. Voluntary recognition is one of two legally protected pathways to union formation through the National Labor Relations Act. He talked about the various companies and organizations that have recently voluntarily recognized unions at their workplace like Microsoft and Minor League Baseball. Keller said that bill would not only infringe on the rights of workers but it could also harm the economic growth of Alabama and any other state with similar legislation.

Unions 101 for Sweet Home Alabama was a recent outreach effort between the North Alabama Area Labor Council and the EPI for any workers and union members who are interested in learning more about unions. Keller said the turnout was terrific and shared the vast array of attendees, from leaders to new workers. The North Alabama AFL-CIO plans several more outreach efforts. Keller is hopeful that educating the public on unions and the truth behind many of the misconceptions will lead to further positive movements for labor in Alabama.

Listen to the show above to hear more from Keller on the union efforts in Alabama.