In a startling discovery, Rep. Gene Green (D-TX) has signed on to co-sponsor the union-busting so-called “Internet Radio Fairness Act.”  As MTP readers will remember, the union-busting bill is opposed by the AFL-CIO, and for good reason–it undermines the protections of assembly and expression guaranteed to unions under the Wagner Act (aka the National Labor Relations Act).

IRFA is not just a threat to artists, it’s one of those “if they can do that, they can do anything” pieces of legislation.  Rep. Green has enjoyed substantial support from union members in his district  including the Carpenters & Joiners Union, the Communication Workers of America, the International Longshoremans Association, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the Ironworkers Union, the Laborers Union, the Machinists and Aerospace Workers, the Operating Engineers, the Plumbers & Pipefitters, the Sheet Metal Workers and the United Steelworkers of America.

So why would Rep. Green support a bill that is so clearly designed to undercut the rights of union workers–to even speak out in opposition to Sirius and the National Association of Broadcasters–and is opposed by the American Federation of Musicians and the AFL-CIO itself.

Oh…Rep. Green is also supported by IFRA coalition member, the National Association of Broadcasters.  And you know how threatening that can be.  If you don’t, just read Section 5 of IRFA.

If you have a question for Rep. Green, you can tweet him @repgenegreen