Chamber Applauds Decision on Executive Orders

Supports Greater Workplace Fairness

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The United States Chamber of Commerce applauded President George W. Bush's decision to issue executive orders dealing with labor unions attempts to take advantage of the federal contracting process.

"We support President Bush's decision to issue these executive orders because they will re-inject fair play into the workplace and they will undo some of the more blatant attempts by the previous administration to favor organized labor," said Randel Johnson, Chamber vice president for labor policy.

"All employers will now be able to bid on federal contracts without regard to whether or not their workers are union members," said Johnson. "It is the taxpayer who will benefit from a level playing field for federal contracts through better products and lower prices that come from increased competition.

"And union workers have a right to know that they do not have to support organized labors' political activities and can withhold the portion of their dues that is earmarked for that purpose," said Johnson.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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