ABC May 21 praised the introduction of the “Freedom From Union Violence Act of 2009” (H.R. 2537) by Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.). The measure would levy a fine of up to $100,000, a prison sentence of up to 20 years, or both, to any person that commits an act of violence or extortion against another person during a labor dispute.
“Lawmakers on Capitol Hill need to send a clear message that any violence or intimidation during labor disagreements will no longer be tolerated,” said 2009 ABC National Chairman Jerry Gorski, president of Gorski Engineering, Inc., Collegeville, Pa. “This legislation is long overdue to help protect all workers in the construction industry.”
The “Freedom From Union Violence Act of 2009” would close a loophole in the Hobbs Act, a federal law that prohibits actual or attempted robbery or extortion affecting interstate or foreign commerce. The measure now goes to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security for further action.