Harrisburg, Pa. — Senator Maria Collett (D-12, Montgomery) and Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-45, Allegheny) announced their introduction of the Pennsylvania Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act on Wednesday, May 13, which would strengthen workers’ rights and modernize the state’s labor laws. The Collett and Pisciottano bill is a companion to HB 1029, introduced by Reps. Dan Williams (D – Chester), Joe Ciresi (D – Montgomery), David Delloso (D – Delaware), Steve Malagari (D – Montgomery), and Jennifer O’Mara (D – Delaware).
“With union approval at near-record highs of 70 percent, it’s clear Pennsylvanians understand the vital role organized labor plays in building a strong middle class that delivers for working families,” said Sen. Collett. “This legislation will help ensure our workers have the protections they need to organize effectively and fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, and better benefits.”
The PRO Act includes several key provisions to protect workers’ rights:
- Establishes clear penalties for worker misclassification and unfair labor practices;
- Requires employers to provide employee contact information to prospective unions during organizing efforts;
- Implements a streamlined process for initial collective bargaining agreements;
- Protects workers’ rights to pursue collective legal action;
- Creates new protections against coercive anti-union activities.
“We must take action to protect our working families. Every American has the right to organize, and this legislation modernizes our laws to uphold fair labor practices,” said Sen. Pisciottano. “This is about standing up for workers—preventing worker misclassification, ensuring fair wages, and safeguarding work environments.”
The bill also includes significant enforcement mechanisms, including:
- Civil penalties up to $50,000 per violation, doubled for repeat offenders;
- Liquidated damages for workers who face discrimination or serious economic harm;
- Enhanced mediation and arbitration procedures for contract negotiations;
- Strengthened remedies for workers facing unfair labor practices.
“Whether you work in healthcare, retail, construction, or on the factory floor, every Pennsylvania worker deserves the right to advocate for better working conditions without fear of retaliation,” added Sen. Collett. “This legislation is critical for protecting workers’ rights and securing a prosperous future for our Commonwealth.”
The senators encourage workers’ rights supporters and advocates to contact their state legislators and voice their support for this important legislation.