On Dec. 6, both the House and the Senate in Michigan voted to end the most fundamental labor rights for workers by joining other traditionally lower-wage states to pass a “Right-to-Work” law. This shocking move eliminates basic union organizing and workplace protections for hard working Americans, and sets back a labor movement that promoted civil rights, women’s rights and economic justice. The closed-door behavior of the Michigan legislature comes after months of claiming that “Right-to-Work” was not on Governor Rick Snyder (R)’s agenda. He has promised, however, to now sign this bill into law.
“NFN is appalled by this striking assault on the very foundation of American democracy, its hard working people and the middle class across the country,” commented NFN president Barbara Crane. “We urge Governor Snyder not to sign this oppressive legislation, and to restore workers’ rights to our sisters and brothers in Michigan.”
A statement from White House spokesperson Keith Maley was also released, which said:
President Obama has long opposed so-called “right to work” laws and he continues to oppose them now. The President believes our economy is stronger when workers get good wages and good benefits, and he opposes attempts to roll back their rights. Michigan – and its workers’ role in the revival of the US automobile industry – is a prime example of how unions have helped build a strong middle class and a strong American economy.
NFN stands in support of the hardworking men and women in the great state of Michigan.