House unlikely to fight Lingle veto of union bill
Gov. Linda Lingle's veto of a bill that would streamline the union certification process is expected to stand.
House leaders say they do not have the two-thirds majority needed to override the veto before the end of the session.
Although the proposal passed with just eight votes in opposition in the 51-member House, and by a 21-4 vote in the Senate, some Democrats have since indicated they are unwilling to override the veto, said House Majority Leader Kirk Caldwell.
After polling members individually, "there aren't the votes to override it," said Caldwell (D, Manoa).
Under the proposal, employees would only have to sign a card saying they were in favor of the union, and if a majority of the employees sign up, the union is authorized to bargain with management.
Unions supported the bill, arguing it was a way to ensure that workers were protected.
Opponents argued it would take away the workers' rights to hold elections and a secret ballot.
In her statement of objections to the bill, Lingle argued it also would mandate time lines for collective bargaining and impose binding arbitration in labor negotiations.
She said the proposal discriminates against agricultural workers, employees of nonprofit corporations, small law firms, museums, restaurants and other small businesses.
Caldwell said some members were concerned that the measure could drive up costs for small businesses.