WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined bipartisan colleagues in commenting on the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) proposed rule to prohibit employers from imposing non-compete clauses on employees.
“Restrictive non-compete agreements suppress economic growth, discourage innovation, and are barriers to market entry for entrepreneurs. Non-competes are neither pro-business nor pro-worker, and Americans deserve flexibility to freely pursue their careers. This is why North Dakota largely prohibited non-competes years ago. The FTC’s proposed rule follows our state’s leadership,” said Senator Cramer.
Joining Senator Cramer are Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Todd Young (R-IN), and Tim Kaine (D-VA).
“The FTC’s proposed rule banning the use of non-competes is great news for workers and for maintaining our economy’s competitive edge. In recent years, we’ve seen an explosion of non-compete agreements across industries and income brackets that have depressed wages and stifled innovation. Senator Young and I applaud the FTC for taking this step, and I look forward to continuing our work in Congress to support American workers and entrepreneurs,” said Senator Murphy.
“Non-compete agreements restrict our workforce and stifle economic growth. This is why I have long fought to rein in their use, and I am pleased that the FTC is taking steps to address their overuse. In the final rule, I am hopeful that the FTC can strike the right balance to support workers while ensuring that our American employers can continue to thrive,” said Senator Young.
“Non-compete clauses suppress wages, hinder job mobility, and make it harder for growing businesses to hire talent. Curtailing their use is a commonsense step that’s good for workers and the economy,” said Senator Kaine.
Background:
Last Congress, Senators Cramer and Kaine co-sponsored the Workforce Mobility Act, a bill led by Senators Murphy and Young to limit the use of non-compete agreements. Learn more here.