The Employee Free Choice Act was introduced in the Senate and House on Tuesday. Business groups have blasted the bill, which is backed by labor.

The Employee Free Choice Act, which is also known as card check, would allow workers to form a union if a majority sign cards to do so, according to the Washington Post newspaper. Employees can do this now, but their employers have the option of requiring an election held by secret ballot. The card check process would not involve a secret ballot.

In addition, the act sends labor contracts to a government arbitrator if employers and workers cannot reach a contract within 120 days, according to the paper.

"Aside from effectively stripping workers of a private vote, the bill would also grant government arbitrators sweeping new powers to dictate private sector wages and working conditions," according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "The legislation would also impose one-sided penalties on employers, but not unions, for misconduct during union organizing drives."

Proponents argue the bill would give workers a greater voice.