WASHINGTON — Senate Republicans have failed in their bid to overturn a new rule making it easier for unions to organize workers in the airline and railroad industries.
The Senate voted 56-43 against a GOP resolution that would have prevented the Obama administration from enforcing the rule.
The new rule approved by the National Mediation Board in May allows employees to unionize if a majority of those voting support the union. The old rule required a majority of all workers to favor union representation. That meant workers choosing not to vote were treated as “no” votes.
The main impact of the change is at Delta Air Lines Inc., where unions are trying to organize thousands of flight attendants.
President Barack Obama had threatened to veto the resolution if passed.