On June 9, 2026, the House of Representatives passed the Faster Labor Contracts Act with a vote of 230-191, with 20 Republicans joining Democrats in support of the bill. The legislation aims to require employers to negotiate union contracts within 10 days of union certification, addressing concerns that employers can delay negotiations for extended periods. The bill had 17 Republican co-sponsors and was sponsored in the Senate by Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO).
Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ), the lead sponsor, stated that the bill is essential for improving workers' rights. Critics, including Americans for Prosperity, argue that the shortened negotiation timeline may hinder proper contract discussions.
The bill's passage utilized a discharge petition, a parliamentary procedure that allows legislation to bypass the committee process if it garners enough support. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) expressed opposition to the use of discharge petitions, emphasizing the importance of the committee process. However, some House members argue that the need for discharge petitions indicates mismanagement of the legislative process.