• Right-to-Work allows workers to opt out of paying dues in union-represented jobs but still receive benefits.
• 27 states have similar laws, which unions say hurts them financially and makes it harder to organize
• Wages grew 12 percent in Michigan since Right-to-Work was adopted, below the rate of inflation

Michigan Democrats are moving fast to repeal the state’s Right-to-Work law that allows workers to opt out of paying dues in union-represented jobs but still receive benefits.

Along party lines, the state House voted on Thursday to repeal the 2012 law. The state Senate could follow suit next week, sending legislation to the eager pen of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat who favors the repeal.

Here’s what to know about the law, why it’s controversial and what both sides of the debate say.

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What does Right-to-Work mean and how many states have similar laws?

Under Right-to-Work laws, unions retain the right to organize and collectively bargain but cannot require members to pay dues. The measures have reduced the amount of money unions have to pay leaders, administer contracts and organize new businesses.

Michigan is one of 27 states with Right-to-Work laws, joining Indiana and...

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