(York, PA) The York County Chamber of Commerce along with other regional Chambers, met with Senators Casey and Specter on card check and health care on March 2, 2010.
The York County Chamber is partnering with the US Chamber on a "fly in" to Washington, DC. For maximum impact, the Chamber coordinated our efforts with the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, The Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.
Senator Casey strongly defended his support of card check legislation. The York County Chamber and other regional Chambers vigorously explained how card check would harm business and robustly disputed Senator Casey's position that card check would be a benefit to employees, employers and the economy.
"I was extremely impressed with how the business community was united to assert their positions to both Senators Casey and Specter. This is why I am a strong supporter of the York County Chamber's ProBusiness advocacy," stated Roger Dick, director of Campbell Operations, Campbell Operations/Cooper Hand Tools.
The official position of the York County Chamber is in opposition to the federal "Employee Free Choice Act" or "Card Check" proposed legislation. The legislation robs employees of their right to a secret ballot in a union election, robs employers of their rights to tell their position on the value of a union and, after a period of time, has the government impose wages and working conditions on employees/employers without their consent.
"The true benefit is how our elected officials heard a united position from the business community of South Central PA," explained Bob Jensenius, executive vice president for the York County Chamber. "Despite disagreement with the Senators over card check, all parties were in agreement on the urgent need for job growth and job creation. We look forward to continued meetings advocating for our members."
Senator Specter has stated that he supports compromise on the issue. The York County Chamber does not support compromise on card check legislation. Almost an hour was spent with Senator Specter this morning making the business position known on card check and health care.
The US Chamber also opposes card check. It anticipates a vote on card check before the November election changes the political landscape in Washington.
The trip to DC is an important opportunity for the York County Chamber to advocate on your behalf.
The York County Chamber thanks Senators Casey and Specter for the meetings, and we would also thank Commissioner Doug Hoke for his assistance in securing the meeting with Senator Casey
