The Associated Builders and Contractors, which has led the charge against plas, hailed the action. Bush's action may bring to a quick end any hope labor had of working with the administration. Labor was a key supporter of Vice President Al Gore's White House bid. But with George W. Bush in the executive mansion, unions must rethink their goals. Chao said officials were still considering what action to take, if any, on a new ergonomics standard finalized in the last days of the Clinton administration.
Labor supports the ergonomics rule, although many construction groups and gop lawmakers oppose it.
Chao vowed to serve as a liaison between labor and the White House. But there was one area where Chao hinted at the brewing battle. But he also said he was a realist. We will fight as hard as we can to protect workers' rights. It appears the fight has already begun.