Backers of so-called “right to work” legislation plan to make a push for the policy change in Michigan early next year.
The law would prohibit agreements that make union membership or the payment of union dues conditions of employment.
About two dozen states have such laws, but Michigan’s status as a union stronghold has long made prospects difficult here. Those with the campaign, though, say that's changing.
"We’ve seen a slow, long steady decline of manufacturing jobs and good-paying union jobs here in Michigan," said Jack Hoogendyk of Michigan Freedom to Work. "A lot of those jobs have gone to right-to-work states."
But it’s still expected to be an uphill climb. Governor Snyder and Senate Republican Leader Randy Richardville have both said the legislation is not a priority for them.
Critics of the legislation call it “right to work for less.” They say wages are significantly lower in right-to-work states.
