Press Releases

Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) praised House passage of  H.R. 8775, Ending Predator Access to Union Power Act, legislation that keeps people convicted of sex crimes against children out of positions of trust and power in America’s workplaces and unions.

The need for this legislation came to light when the Committee investigated a Service Employees International Union’s (SEIU) local chapter for hiring a convicted child molester to serve on its leadership team. SEIU represents public service employees who work closely with children including public school employees, bus drivers, and child care providers. 

“Federal law already bars individuals convicted of serious crimes—including murder, rape, robbery, and embezzlement—from holding positions of power in labor unions and certain positions in employer management. It only makes sense that sex crimes against minors should be included as well,” said Chairman Walberg. “There should be no loopholes when it comes to keeping convicted child sex offenders out of positions of power and trust. I’m glad to see my colleagues agree that H.R. 8775 is a commonsense step that protects children, closes a gap in federal law, and strengthens the integrity of our nation’s labor unions.” 

“This commonsense legislation amends the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) to prohibit individuals convicted of sex offenses against minors from being employed by labor organizations, specifically in leadership positions. The LMRDA already prohibits individuals convicted of crimes, including rape and serious forms of assault, from holding office in labor organizations. It only makes sense to add sexual abuse of a minor to the list. This bill ensures that union power cannot be exploited by those who have committed serious offenses against children,” said Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC).
 
H.R. 8775, Ending Predator Access to Union Power Act, authored by Rep. Joe Wilson:  

• Upholds Union Integrity. When union leaders have a history of serious criminal offenses, they undermine their own credibility at the bargaining table and erode public trust in the union. 
• Fixes Loopholes. The Labor Management Reporting and Disclosure Act already prohibits individuals convicted of many crimes, including rape and serious forms of assault, from holding office in labor unions. It only makes sense to add sexual abuse of a minor to the list.  
• Protects Children from Abusers. Many unions represent individuals who work with children. A position in union leadership could grant child molesters access to children and opportunities to reoffend. 

Click here for Chairman Walberg's full Floor remarks.