Golden Statement on House Votes Regarding Rail Labor Dispute

Press Release

Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released a statement today following his vote against H. Res. 100 and his vote for H. Con. Res. 119. H. Res. 100 would force a labor agreement on rail unions that have not yet ratified it. H. Con. Res. 119, would provide for seven paid sick days for affected rail workers. 

"In prematurely rushing this legislation through the House, Congress undermines the fundamental bargaining power of workers and unions across the country. The right to bargain for fair wages and humane working conditions is a bright red line for me. While the stakes are high with these particular negotiations, in the end, nothing is better for our long-term economic security than a strong and resilient workforce. 

"A congressional intervention of this scale has not taken place in 30 years. Rather than weigh the gravity of such a move and pursue other viable steps that would have continued to respect the bargaining process, today the House opted for the option of last resort. I was glad to vote to support the unions' efforts to make sure workers have seven sick days per year, and I will continue to stand up for their right to push for a better deal for workers and their families." - Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

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