As of today, so-called “right-to-work” (“RTW”) laws are effective in 27 states. These laws ensure that no worker can be required, as a condition of employment, to join or not join, nor pay dues to, a labor union, as permitted by Section 14(b) of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). In other words, RTW laws effectively bar the inclusion of union security provisions in collective bargaining agreements in those states. Such provisions enable unions to collect dues from workers that unions are legally required to represent but who choose not to be union members. Because dues are often the primary funding source for union operations, these provisions are heavily favored by unions.

Next year, however, the number of states with RTW laws will decrease by at least one. On March 24, 2023, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) signed legislation repealing the Wolverine State’s RTW law. Michigan becomes the first state in nearly 60 years to repeal its RTW law, which was implemented in 2013 under then-Governor Rick Snyder (R). The repeal is viewed as a major victory for union organization which reached an all-time low in 2022. “Today, we are coming together to restore workers’ rights, protect Michiganders on the job, and grow Michigan’s middle class,” said Gov. Whitmer in a statement. “It’s a new day here in Lansing,” spoke Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D). “It’s time to once again make Michigan known as a place where workers want to come.”

While the legislation...

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