Obama likes transparency, except for rank-and-file union members
Posted by Mike Reitz - January 30, 2009We were excited to hear President Obama's commitment to a new era of openness. In fact, here's what he said: "Let me say it as clearly as I can: transparency and the rule of law will be the touchstones of this presidency."
Then why is he helping unions hide information from their members?
Over the last eight years the Department of Labor under Secretary Elaine Chao has modernized the reports unions file under the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act. These reports are now posted online, and provide union members with detailed information about union income, expenditures, officer salaries, and other financial information. The requirements (initially championed by JFK as a senator) require unions to operate in a transparent fashion with their members. This transparency has helped publicize some questionable spending by union officials, including outlays for equestrian dinner theater, movie tickets, steak dinners, golf outings, and booze.
The Dept. of Labor recently updated the annual disclosure form that most large unions are required to file. One change requires unions to disclose the value of benefits paid to union employees and officers.
Well, say hello to the new boss. The Obama Administration today announced plans to delay implementation of the rule by 60 days. The office is also seeking comments "on the merits of rescinding or retaining the rule."
I understand that labor unions helped put President Obama into office. But that's no excuse for squashing an accountability tool that helps rank-and-file workers keep tabs on their union.
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