Michigan becomes first state to repeal right-to-work law in 58 years

Michigan is the first state to repeal a right-to-work law in 58 years.

The law, passed by a Republican-controlled legislature more than a decade ago, allowed those in unionized workplaces to opt out of paying union dues and fees.

Today we are coming together to restore workers rights, protect Michiganders on the job and grow Michigan's middle class, Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made a statement after she signed the legislation.

The unions made Michigan a hub of American business and an engine of America's middle class. Michigan is a great place to work and a great place to be a worker. The right-to- work law was enacted in 2012 and was a priority for Democrats there, who took control of the full state government this year for the first time in 40 years.

They argued it allowed for free riders who received union representation without having to pay fees or dues. Without it, unions can now require all workers in a unionized workplace to pay fees for representation in bargaining.

Over half of the U.S. states have right-to-work laws in place.

In 1965 Indiana had repealed its law before Republicans restored it in 2012.

Six years ago, Missouri s Republican Legislature approved a right-to- work law, but it was blocked from going into effect before the voter soverwhelmingly rejected it the next year.

The repeal of the Michigan law will lead to the state becoming less attractive to businesses as well as forced union membership, according to Republicans.

House Republican leader Matt Hall said in a statement that businesses will find more competitive states for their manufacturing plants and research and development facilities, and workers and careers will drift away. The legislation Whitmer signed includes $1 million in appropriations, which Republicans say is to make sure they are referendum-proof. The Michigan Constitution states bills with appropriations aren't subject to a public referendum in which voters could oppose the law.

In 2019 Whitmer promised to veto bills designed to cut out of the public's right of referendum.