WASHINGTON – Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04) introduced the Start Applying Labor Transparency (SALT) Act, legislation aimed at exposing “salting,” a common union organizing tactic where individuals are paid by labor unions to infiltrate companies with the aim of organizing a union. The SALT Act would require these union “salts” to disclose their affiliation to the Department of Labor, enhancing transparency for employees regarding whom they are working with and what their intentions are.

“Imagine a scenario where an employee, without the knowledge of their colleagues and employer, is receiving compensation from a union while advocating for its interests within the workplace,” said Rep. Owens. “This deception not only breeds suspicion but also erodes the very foundation of trust and transparency between employers and employees. The SALT Act seeks to address this issue by requiring union salts to disclose their affiliation with the Department of Labor, ensuring transparency and fairness in the workplace.”

Background: 

The Start Applying Labor Transparency Act (SALT Act) seeks to amend the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 to enhance reporting requirements, specifically requiring detailed reporting by labor organizations and individuals on payments, loans, agreements, or arrangements made to influence employees’ organizational and bargaining rights. Additionally, it mandates annual reporting of receipts and disbursements related to labor relations services. The bill also directs the Secretary of Labor to review and revise regulations within six months of enactment to implement these amendments effectively.

Full legislative text is available here. 

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