US Congressman Sorensen addresses the House about worker’s rights

Photo provided by the Office of Congressman Eric Sorenson

NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois District 17 Congressman Eric Sorensen delivered a speech on the House floor in support of workers have the right to bargain collectively. Sorenson’s district covers a northwest section of the state, including parts of McLean County.

His speech condemns attempts to overturn The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recent update their joint employer rules that protect workers’ rights to organize. 

“Last year, the administration took an important step to protect workers’ rights by issuing an updated joint employer rule,” said Sorensen.

He spoke to the House of Representatives in hopes the policy would remain the same. He further explains the issue as whether an employer is obligated to come to the bargaining table.

“I’ve heard from so many working families across Central and Northwestern Illinois who feel like they’re left behind, like the government does not stand for them as they work paycheck to paycheck trying to do the right thing for themselves and their families,” Sorensen said in his remarks.

He expanded his speech to cover his belief that when workers join together to bargain for their wages, good benefits and safe workplaces, every entity with control over the work positions should “be at the table, required by law.” 

“All the while, big corporations automate jobs and misclassify workers, all to save quick buck while reporting record profit and forgetting whose labor got them to the positions of success in the first place,” said Sorensen.  

Congressman Sorensen noted his support for the Biden Administration’s Joint Employer, which allows workplace negotiation. He addresses House Republicans and lists the consequences if the NLRB’s joint employer rule was overturned. He urged the House to oppose the bill. 

Furthermore, Sorensen addressed the hard-working people from his district. He expressed his loyalty and promised to continue fighting for their protection.