While the editors of the Washington Post may charge Rep. Darrell Issa with overreaching, the real overreach is being done by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Earlier this year, the NLRB filed a complaint against Boeing for building a facility in a right-to-work state and Rep. Issa is merely investigating this unprecedented NLRB action. As chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Issa is certainly not overreaching in demanding timely answers from an agency whose actions call into question its independence and its devotion to the law.
As the editorial points out, the NLRB is an “independent” Federal agency. It is supposed to interpret Federal labor law fairly and without political influence. Issa is merely trying to determine if the NLRB is living up to its mission. As part of Congress’ oversight responsibility, it is proper to look into instances where Federal agencies seem to be deviating from their legislative mandates and advancing the interests of one entity to the detriment of the nation.
For instance, the House Oversight Committee is trying to determine if the NLRB’s chief counsel consulted with the White House or a union when he decided to target Boeing. If he did, it calls into question the independence of the NLRB. Given the nature of the complaint and the timing of the action, there is ample reason to ask questions, particularly considering the reactions from employers stating it has had a chilling effect on the economy.
The NLRB’s complaint against Boeing is so egregious that it’s clear why Rep. Issa has issued a subpoena requesting this material. The NLRB would destroy a thousand jobs in South Carolina and make any business looking to create jobs in a right-to-work state think twice. Its complaint is a blatant attempt to intimidate employers into going along with union demands and to bolster Big Labor’s sagging fortunes.
This complaint could take years to wind its way through the judicial system. The American people deserve to know today whether the NLRB is enforcing the law or following the dictates of union bosses. The NLRB has broad power over U.S. businesses. Its actions can affect our economy in ways both good and bad. Rep. Issa is right to seek immediate answers from an agency that appears to be trying to make the law, not interpret it.
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