Overcoming
White House objections, members of the AFL-CIO approved a resolution that cites a “
laundry list of complaints against ObamaCare.” The Federation – which represents more than 12 million workers – described the law as “
highly disruptive” to its health care plans. It seems AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka can no longer deny the devastating consequences of a law he once praised as a “
historic victory.”
In fact, as
The Hill reports, “
The AFL-CIO lobbied for ObamaCare’s passage and is one of President Obama’s biggest political backers.” It’s encouraging to see those who strongly endorsed the health care law finally recognize its fundamental problems.
Whether it’s
fewer full-time jobs,
higher health care costs, or
loss of existing coverage, the president’s health care law is wreaking havoc in America’s workplaces. The hardworking staff at
SeaWorld and
Trader Joe’s are the latest to be hit by the ObamaCare
train wreck.
Although Health and Human Services Secretary Sebelius once dismissed these emerging trends as “
speculation,” perhaps union bosses can convince the administration that the pain ObamaCare is inflicting on workplaces is real. The growing number of unions voicing their concerns with the law is certainly persuasive.
International Brotherhood of Teamsters, UFCW, UNITE-HERE:
On behalf of the millions of working men and women we represent and the families they support, we can no longer stand silent in the face of elements of the [health care law] that will destroy the very health and wellbeing of our members along with millions of other hardworking Americans. – Letter to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), July 11, 2013
United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers:
In the rush to achieve its passage, many of the Act's provisions were not fully conceived, resulting in unintended consequences that are inconsistent with the promise that those who were satisfied with their employer sponsored coverage could keep it… I am therefore calling for repeal or complete reform of the Affordable Care Act to protect our employers, our industry, and our most important asset: our members and their families. – Press Release, “Roofers’ Union Seek Repeal/Reform of Affordable Care Act,” April 24, 2013
Laborers International Union of North America:
For unionized construction workers, their employers, and their health and welfare funds, the [health care law] is proving to be a destructive program that was supposed to control health care costs as was promised. Approximately 3 million laborers, retirees, and their families now face the very real prospect of losing their health benefits. This, I must remind you, was something you promised would not happen. – Letter to President Barack Obama, “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act,” July 18, 2013
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers:
For over 65 years multiemployer health plans have provided affordable quality coverage for American workers. Unfortunately, implementation of the [health care law] is jeopardizing multiemployer plans and the individuals the plans cover. We believe it will be impossible for our funds to survive if the administration continues ACA implementation. We cannot afford to sit on the sidelines as this law imposes increased benefit costs, fees, and new taxes on our plans. – Letter to Members of Congress, July 17, 2013
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