CEA Urges Rejection of Newly Introduced Anti-Innovation Legislation.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)[R] President and CEO, Gary Shapiro today issued the following statement in response to the introduction of the "Employee Free Choice Act."

"On behalf of the high tech industry, I strongly urge members of Congress not to sponsor this controversial and problematic legislation that would not only take away a fundamental American right, the secret ballot, but also harm our nation's competitiveness at the worst possible time.

"Our nation needs a robust and vibrant high tech industry. American technology companies need flexibility to innovate, rather than an environment with artificially higher wages, fewer jobs and less innovation. In today's economy, it is unimaginable that we would deliberately enact a policy that would harm innovation and push manufacturing overseas.

"Even worse than stripping workers of core protections, this legislation would force government-binding arbitration, placing the fate of innovative companies in the hands of federal bureaucrats. We are competing on a world stage, and if American companies are denied the ability to flexibly respond and differentially pay to address new market opportunities, we are forcing them to fight battles with both arms tied.

"During these economic times, our government should focus on measures that allow American businesses to grow jobs and enhance innovation."

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $172 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.

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