Right to Work in Michigan

Republicans renew campaign to make Michigan a Right-to-Work state

Representatives Jacob Hoogendyk, Jr. (R-Portage) and Kevin Elsenheimer (R-Bellaire) have introduced a two bill legislative package that would make Michigan a right-to-work (for less) state. Hoogendyk's bill (HB 4454) would impact private sector workers.  Elsenheimer's bill (HB 4455) would impact public employees.  These bills have been referred to the House Labor Committee.

These bills increase corporate profits by destroying unions, cutting worker pay and eliminating benefits. 

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Oppose Right-to-Work in Michigan

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to ask you to oppose HB 4454 and 4455, which would make Michigan a right-to-work state.

These bills don't guarantee any rights. In fact, by weakening unions and collective bargaining, it destroys the best job security protection that exists: the union contract. Meanwhile, it allows workers to pay nothing and get all the benefits of union membership. Right-to-work laws say unions must represent all eligible employees, whether they pay dues or not.

These bills are also unneeded because federal law already protects workers who don't want to join a union to get or keep their jobs. Federal law also protects nonmembers from paying for union activities that violate their religious or political beliefs.

Workers in right-to-work states earn less money and are less likely to have health insurance and a pension. Is this what you want for Michigan?

For these reasons, I ask you to oppose House Bills 4454 and 4455. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
March 06, 2006


Background Information

How Will Michigan Workers be Impacted by Michigan Becoming a "Right-to-Work" State?

For one thing, they will make less money.  Michigan workers are paid an average of $7,601 a year more than workers in states that have attacked paychecks with "Right-to-Work" laws.

They will be less likely to have health care coverage. Once again, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 89 percent of union workers in private industry had health insurance compared with only 67 percent of nonunion workers. Union workers also are more likely to have retirement and short-term disability benefits.

They will be less likely to have a have a pension. 70 percent of union workers are covered by a defined benefit pension plan versus only 16 percent of non union workers.

They will also be more likely to get killed on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of workplace deaths is 51 percent higher in states with right to work, where unions can’t speak up on behalf of workers.

Take Action!

Only you can help stop Michigan from becoming a "Right-to-Work" (for less) state. Please contact your state representative and state senator today and ask them to oppose the Right-to-Work Bills.