The legislation, SB231, does not apply to the unfolding vote this week at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Vance. But it could lead to revoking future economic incentives if companies voluntarily recognize a union.

The UAW is looking to add to its recent win in the South, where nonunion workforces appeal to foreign automakers.

Benz’s plant in Vance began voting Monday on whether to organize a union under the United Auto Workers (UAW). Voting will run through Friday. The National Labor Relations Board announced that it plans to count the votes and announce the totals on May 17.

Mercedes-Benz, the first auto plant to locate in the state, could become the first vehicle factory in Alabama represented by UAW.

Benz plant in Alabama began voting Monday on whether to join the United Auto Workers union, a significant test of whether the labor group can maintain momentum in the historically anti-union American South.

The pivotal vote comes after last month's big United Auto Workers union win at a Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.

"When we had a three shift model I worked what they call C-shift at Mercedes, and I never missed a game," said Garrard, a Mercedes' Alabama battery plant. "Never missed a school function. Veterans Day I was able to always be there with the kids,