WASHINGTON (AP) -- Labor regulators are proposing sweeping new rules that would dramatically shorten the time frame for union elections.
The move could make it easier for struggling unions to organize new members, and give businesses much less time to mount anti-union campaigns.
The National Labor Relations Board announced the new rules on Tuesday, saying the current rules build in unnecessary delays and encourage wasteful litigation.
Most labor elections take place within 45-60 days after a union gathers enough signatures to file a petition. The new plan could cut that time by days or even weeks -- depending on the case -- by simplifying procedures, deferring litigation and setting shorter deadlines for hearings and filings.
Unions are praising the move, while Republicans and business groups are expected to strongly oppose it.
