Gov. Wolf Signs Labor Dispute Harassment Bill

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa., (CBS) -- Governor Tom Wolf has signed into law a bill that would prohibit parties involved in labor disputes from using tactics such as stalking, harassing or making threats of mass destruction.

The sponsor of the measure characterizes it as a "public safety" issue, but during debate on the bill as legislators voted on it, Democrats denounced the measure as an effort to make strikes, picket lines and demonstrations more difficult for organized labor. His opponents have complained that Governor Wolf is beholden to labor, but Jeff Sheridan, spokesman for the Democratic governor, says he has signed the bill.

"He believes that any form of harassment by employees or employers in unacceptable. The governor also does believe, though, that it is important to allow men and women to come together and have their voices heard. But again, any form of harassment, whether by employees or employers, is not something that the governor believes is acceptable," said Sheridan.

The new law eliminates current exceptions for stalking, harassment and making threats for both management and workers involved in labor disputes.