By The Associated Press

Labor regulators are proposing rules that would dramatically shorten the time frame for union elections.

The move could make it easier for struggling unions to organize new members, and give businesses much less time to mount anti-union campaigns.

The National Labor Relations Board announced the rules today, saying the current rules build in unnecessary delays and encourage wasteful litigation.

Most labor elections take place within 45 to 60 days after a union gathers enough signatures to file a petition. The new plan could cut that time by days or even weeks — depending on the case — by simplifying procedures, deferring litigation and setting shorter deadlines for hearings and filings.

Unions are praising the move, and Republicans and business groups are expected to strongly oppose it.