Ball in Wolf's Court to End
Union Violence Loophole

Stalking, Harassment, Threats Currently Legal in Labor Disputes

October 27, 2015, HARRISBURG, Pa.—Stalking, harassment, and personal threats are all legal in Pennsylvania—if you happen to be involved in a labor dispute. This absurd injustice could end soon as legislation to close this legal loophole was sent to Governor Wolf’s desk today.

The state House voted 107-91 in favor of legislation, HB 874, to end the ability of parties involved in a labor dispute to stalk, harass, and threaten with legal impunity.

“It's almost impossible to believe, but currently law grants a get out of jail free card to stalking, intimidation, and even threats to use weapons of mass destruction if you’re involved in a labor dispute,” commented Nathan Benefield, vice president of policy analysis for the Commonwealth Foundation. “This loophole was cited by a judge last year to dismiss a Philadelphia case where clear harassment had taken place.”

Sarina Rose, a Philadelphia construction executive, suffered harassment and threats by union members, one of whom even mimed shooting her. A judge dismissed the case, citing an exemption in the criminal code permitting this deplorable behavior.

“There’s simply no plausible justification for tolerating stalking, harassment, and threats to use WMDs. Governor Wolf should sign this commonsense legislation immediately.”

Nathan Benefield and other Commonwealth Foundation experts are available for comment today. Please contact Gina Diorio at 862-703-6670 or [email protected] to schedule an interview.

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