Faster Labor Contracts Act

Faster first contracts for workers

If enacted, the bill would require bargaining to start within 10 days after a written request from a newly certified or recognized representative. Parties would have 90 days from the start of bargaining to try to reach a first contract and must make every reasonable effort to conclude and sign it. Current wages, hours, and terms would be maintained until the initial agreement is signed. If no agreement in 90 days, either side could ask the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to mediate; FMCS would have 30 days (or more if agreed) to try to settle. If mediation fails, the dispute would go to a three-person arbitration panel; each side must pick a member within 14 days or FMCS would appoint unchosen members. A majority panel decision would be binding for two years and must consider employer finances and size, employees' cost of living and ability to support dependents, and comparable pay and benefits. The bill would also require the Government Accountability Office to report within one year on average days between certification and the initial contract.