U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) on Feb. 9 joined U.S. Rep. Andy Levin (D-Mich.) and nearly 130 House Democrats to formally introduce a resolution recognizing the right of congressional staff to organize to form a union.

Following the passage of the Congressional Accountability Act in 1995, the Office of Compliance and Workplace Rights ruled in 1996 that passage of the resolution was the final step to give congressional workers legal protection to organize and bargain collectively. Twenty-six years later, Congress is finally taking that step.

“Congressional staffers put much time and energy into serving our country,” Schiff said. “And just like every worker in America, congressional staff should be able to organize for better working conditions, higher pay and a brighter future. I’m proud to join Congressman Levin in recognizing the right to form a union and will strongly support all staffers in this effort.”

Levin is spearheading the initiative along with several legislators.