Business groups are growing worried that a Democrat-controlled U.S. Senate would lead to the elimination of the filibuster, which could open the door to new regulations on climate change and union organizing, The Hill newspaper reported Sept. 2

The Senate filibuster has been used successfully in the past to stop legislation sought by the majority party, particularly when Democrats controlled the chamber. As a result, there haves been an increasing calls among unions and progressive groups to end the parliamentary procedure so legislation could pass by a simple majority vote, according to The Hill.

If Democrats take back the Senate in the upcoming elections, ending the filibuster would remove a major roadblock for legislation on climate change, antitrust law and union organization. That concerns business groups wary of new regulation.

"The filibuster has been a part of the Senate for a long time and it has really protected the idea that consensus is needed to move large pieces of legislation," said Frank Macchiarola, the American Petroleum Institute's senior vice president of policy, economics and regulatory affairs, told The Hill.

Neil Bradley, chief policy officer for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said eliminating the filibuster "ultimately it results in much worse policy."

Another industry association who spoke anonymously told the newspaper the proposal would be "a thermo-nuclear bomb for the business community's agenda."

Republicans currently enjoy a 53-45 majority in the Senate, with two independents. However, several GOP senators are facing potentially tough re-election campaigns because of the sagging economy and President Donald Trump's low favorability ratings.

MORE CEO DATELINE

• AICPA launches .cpa top-level internet domain
• SOCMA acquires specialty chemicals trade show
• Trade group launches ad campaign to encourage in-restaurant dining
• Shift to streaming music continues during pandemic