The measure essentially gives non-union employers the right to discriminate against certain union members in hiring and firing practices.

The vote on the controversial bill was scheduled by Speaker Newt Gingrich to take place while many members of the Black Caucus, who were expected to vote against the proposal, were in Africa with President Clinton.

"Salting" is the practice of sending union organizers into a non-union firm for the purpose of organizing workers from within. "Salts" typically develop personal relationships with co-workers and share with them, from first hand experience, the benefits of becoming Union members.

If an organizing drive develops, the salt is well positioned to respond immediately to any attempt by management to discredit the union or intimidate other workers.

Salts are also knowledgeable about jobsite safety and employment standards and are prepared to file complaints against employers with appropriate federal or state agencies should an employer violate jobsite safety or employment laws.

It is that knowledge and assistance that has helped salting become so successful in the building trades, and that has so infuriated open-shop contractors and their friends in Congress.

Wisconsin Congressmen Tom Barrett, Jay Johnson, Ron Kind, Jerry Kleczka, and Dave Obey sided with union workers by voting against the bill.

Voting to give employers the authority to discriminate against union members were Congressmen Tom Petri, Mark Neumann, and James Sensenbrenner.

Speaking during the opening session of the Unity Conference, U.S. Senator Russ Feingold said he believed in the rights of workers to organize and that he would oppose any attempt to outlaw any method of organizing.

"Unions are good for this country," Feingold said. "Congress should be making it easier for workers to join Unions, not harder."