Right-to-work opponents to sing Christmas carols outside Gov. Rick Snyder's home near Ann Arbor
A group of labor supporters is hoping Gov. Rick Snyder will be moved by the Christmas spirit Monday night and reverse his stance on controversial right-to-work legislation.
Following chaotic protests at the state Capitol last week, We Are Michigan has announced plans to sing Christmas carols near Snyder's home just east of Ann Arbor.
"While Michigan families struggle, Gov. Snyder's neighbors hope that the Christmas spirit will reach through the gates of his Superior Township mansion and move the governor to reconsider his support for this extreme legislation backed by corporate CEOs and the ultra-rich, leaving working families behind in the process," the group stated in a news release Sunday night.
Rick Snyder
"We're hoping the governor will hear the sounds of the season down the road and think twice about signing this legislation," Kreisman said.
Snyder, who previously called right-to-work a "divisive issue" and said he didn't want it on his agenda, pledged his support for making Michigan a right-to-work state last week. The legislation is now quickly working its way through the Legislature during the lame duck session.
The legislative package the Republicans hope to finish up and ship to Snyder's desk this week would give workers the right to avoid paying union dues. In other words, it would be illegal to require financial support of a union as a condition of employment. The bills working their way through the Legislature cover all public and private workers except police and firefighters.
Snyder and Republican leaders argue workers should have a choice whether to financially support a union. Democrats and labor supporters call it a heavy-handed attack on unions and argue it deprives unions the ability to fairly collect dues from those who benefit from the bargaining process.
Labor supporters also cite statistics that show employees in right-to-work states make 3.2 percent less than workers in free-bargaining states, or about $1,500 less per year.
Unlike a march to Snyder's home earlier this year in protest of Michigan's controversial emergency manager law, Kreisman said Monday's demonstration won't impact traffic in any way. He said there won't be any protesters bused in from other communities like there were back in January.
"We're going to be off the road and making sure there won't be any backups," he said, adding it'll be a peaceful demonstration.
We Are Michigan describes itself as a coalition of faith, community, labor and progressive groups united by a common commitment to strengthening Michigan's middle class. Among its members are public and private sector union workers with the Michigan AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
A spokesperson for Snyder could not be reached Sunday night.
Workers from across Michigan and other parts of the country are gearing up for a day of action in Lansing on Tuesday and asking supporters to wear read on Monday to show support.
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.
Comments
Albert
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 11:34 p.m.
We elected a Republican Governor and Legislature. Nothing unexpected has happened in regard to taxation, education, or labor. Social issues are, I am sure, also on the agenda. Republicans can accomplish anything they want in this climate. The time to complain is when just 50% or less of people vote, many of them ill-educated on the issues.
Paul Kersey
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 1:07 p.m.
Dave Kreisman is not from Michigan. He's a Madison Wisconsin photographer and left wing union rabble rousing agitator. This "protest" was astroturf ALL the way!
Macabre Sunset
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 1:49 a.m.
It's sad that people are so nasty about what they want that they feel they have to harass the governor at his home, not to mention harassing his family and his neighbors, who have nothing to do with this. Anyone who joins this so-called protest has no right to ever call him or herself a professional anything, other than maybe a professional jerk.
genetracy
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 12:33 a.m.
Because Christmas carols are religious in origin, I am sure the ACLU will file a separation of church and state lawsuit beiofre the end of the day.
Nice One!
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:26 p.m.
Clownfish: "[D]o you think everyone has a right to whatever job they want?" YES, I do. That's how this country is supposed to work. How is a school district a "union shop"? The union claims to own it, but they don't. I am not against unions, but please stop claiming entitlement over whole industries. You do not actually own the schools. They are not "union shops." Join the current century and get members by being more appealing and valuable, not by legislating loyalty.
Kai Petainen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 10:01 p.m.
A protest of carols? I presume "Silent Night" won't be part of the singing? As much as I am in favor of free speech, I also believe in showing respect to the office of the Governor and their private residence. Protest all you like at the Governor's mansion, at Lansing, in front of City Hall, in the Diag, on the main streets of Ann Arbor -- but do not protest at his private residence. Protesting in front of his home comes across as an unprofessional bullying tactic. It's completely appropriate to agree and disagree with his policies and protest civilly, but it is not appropriate to protest in front of his gates.
justiceforeach
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:21 p.m.
Kai- I believe you are right calling for respect. If you were in Lansing within the past week as i was on other business - what you would have seen was Labor pulling down other peoples signs, getting their faces within 2 inches of other peoples faces, intimidation, bullying and disregarding laws and rules, and general creation of wild west, anything goes chaotic atmosphere.
Rita Mitchell
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:38 p.m.
Honest Abe, " All we do is stand divided amongst ourselves, instead of working with and supporting each other." Sounds like a reason to support unions.
Paul Taylor
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 5:30 a.m.
Abe, didn't you stand with the Union during the War of Northern Aggression?
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 10:13 p.m.
So many other ways than unions. I have been union before too. I will NEVER support any union of any type.
Polecat
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:10 p.m.
Michigan is moving forward and hopefully all those plants being built in the South will start coming to Mcihigan and a new labor climate.
dairy6
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:59 p.m.
odds are they wont but keep telling yourself that.
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:20 p.m.
Note that the GOP called out union cops to protect themselves, after ensuring that the police unions would remain a "closed shop".
dairy6
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:57 p.m.
yep they really have the peoples best interests mind. i really apprciate the fact that I dont even have to do anything and they just vote through laws to protect my rights. without even asking. yep, i totally trust them. thanks GOP. I say we just vote you in for life. your so good to us all. why even bother with anyone else?
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:27 p.m.
Note to clownfish, The police are paid to do a job period. Whether one is union or not shouldn't matter.
snapshot
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:06 p.m.
I'm hoping the governor calls out a National Guard regiment to provide an audience for this charitable entertainment.
Nicholas Urfe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:19 p.m.
What other types of legislation might Snyder change his mind about, and quickly try and rush through during a lame duck session with no public comment? Abortion? Banning the pill?
Ann Wisniewski
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:54 p.m.
Synder is toast politically. He definitely can never be trusted again. He cannot say RTW would be divisive, not on his agenda and that he would veto it if it came to his desk and then change his mind completely to the opposite position for political reasons. We have just witnessed on the national level the epitome of a flip flopper who is now a political loser. Actions like these by our political leaders will not be tolerated by the electorate.
snapshot
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:08 p.m.
At least he showed up for work and accepts accountability for his actions. Maybe there's a few lessons that could be learned from his stellar example.
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 6:46 p.m.
It will be a fine day, when every labor union is busted. Good example why? A UAW worked would have to commit murder to be fired. What makes them think that an unskilled worker (Sorry, but pushing buttons and working the line is not skilled) be paid around $100,000 yearly with benefits? When I was younger, I actually worked for a big 3 company. I did practically nothing at work, I sipped coffee and shot the bull for majority of the shift. Sometimes workers would drink vodka in the coffee cup and go to their car and sleep for a few hours. All while making $17.50 per hour! and this was in 1987! None of us earned the money we were paid! ......just being 'Honest'.
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 10:07 p.m.
so sorry to hear that Paul. LOL Truth hurts....doesn't it?!
aslick
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:30 p.m.
The lack of accountability and responsibility for the UAW is absolutely sickening. I used to supervise UAW employees and they spent more time and effort avoiding work than actually trying to work. Do these doofuses realize that they directly impact the ability of their employer to stay in business and in that, their ability to stay employed? Such short sighted nonsense. I have no issues with paying skilled labor well...so long as there is some accountability and they work hard like the rest of us who have consequence for laziness and irresponsibility.
snapshot
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:13 p.m.
In the past I had no issues with private unions and assumed the market would take care of that business but with the bailout and GM unions falsely touting on TV they paid back the government early which isn't true (they still owe us 24 billion dollars) I think we need to bring a little balance back to the private sector. Public unions need a lot of balance brought back into that equation.
Paul Taylor
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:06 p.m.
Obvious troll continues being obvious.
aslick
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:26 p.m.
I don't get the big fuss with Right to Work. This doesn't ban unions, just says they can't force people to be a member. Here is how I see it. IF the unions are such great organizations to work under, they should not care about this as people will join them because they are such great organizations. If they really are not all that great, then people have the choice to be independent. Whats the big deal, what am I missing? RTW doesn't eliminate unions, it just gives workers the freedom to choose if they are represented or not.
grye
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:15 p.m.
How much do the Union Bosses make off of all you union members? My guess is they are close to, if not part of he 1%.
JRW
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:08 p.m.
Tra lalalala. Ricky is the Grinch who stole the union rights....
Judy
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:06 p.m.
When "All Union Members" are treated the same who pay the same amount in dues than I would not mine paying union dues but the TEAMS do not treat "All Union Members" the same as was said in my husbands union meeting, "Seniority means everything, sit down." He was working one day or less a week while his borther union members worked 60 plus hours a week but he paid the same monthly dues. Yes, he quit because the dues in 2010 were more in one month than he made in some weeks.
grye
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:04 p.m.
Interesting that the rights of a Union trump the rights of the citizen. Is that the way our constitution is supposed to work? Why isn't the ACLU out defending our right not to have to join a Union?
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:32 p.m.
Clownfish, If they are offered a job in a union shop, shouldn't they have a choice to join that union or not? Isn't that fair? When a company goes union, why is it fair that those who voted against it have to join the union when they were against it in the first place? Is that fair?
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:24 p.m.
What citizen rights do unions trump? If you don't want to belong to a union, don't get a job in a union shop. Or do you think everyone has a right to whatever job they want?
Gem girl
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:24 p.m.
Regardless of your opinion on the legislation itself, people should be aware that the legislature Has added an appropriations clause to this bill. Under current Michigan law this means that it cannot be changed. It is pure hypocrisy to propose a law touting freedom of choice and then disenfranchising voters at the same time. No law should be able to be made permanent, especially when it is not voted on by the people of Michigan. This legislation in its current form is wrong and our legislators and governor are wrong for supporting it. Call the governor 517-373-3400 and tell him not to sign this.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 6:58 p.m.
Gem Girl, Your statement "No law should be able to be made permanent" is absolutely false. The law can be overturned in the House/Senate, by a future governor or in the State Court System. As everyone keeps saying, if you don't like the law then elect the right people to the house/senate to overturn the law. But to say this law is permanent is just furthering the union's talking points which is a lie. Delete
working poor @ u of m
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:20 p.m.
Tried calling............. Gov. Snyder's voice mail is full. Pressed 0 to speak with an operator............."All operators are unavailable to assist you. Please call back later."
SEC Fan
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:42 p.m.
It is interesting to note that although incomes are $1,500/year less (3.2%) in RTW states, the Cost of Living in RTW states is some 19.3% less (per 2010 U.S. Census). Additionally, average unemployment in RTW states is 6.9% whereas in CBS (collective bargaining states) it's 7.5%. The real difference is in the health and pension benefits. With Obamacare, I assume any differences in health coverage will go away. However, the rate of employee-sponsored pension plans in RTW states is about 4.8% less than in CBS states. Although I expect that would even out over time regardless of these votes as most companies are changing out fixed pension plans (e.g., with 401Ks_ anyway.
treetowncartel
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:58 p.m.
One other factor is that it is not as expensive to clothe and house yourself(utilities) in those warmer climates.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:30 p.m.
Using the $1,500 less figure, I wonder how much the UAW members have to pay in union dues? Back in 2000 it was around $600. My guess would be, 12 years later, around $750. Not that great of a deal when you have to put up with the unions going on strike, allowing people to get their jobs back after drinking and using drugs on the job, etc.
SEC Fan
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:15 p.m.
No doubt (totally agree). My point is that when comparing salaries, we also have to compare the buying power of that salary Personally, I don't think the big impact of RTW will be the salary...it's the benefits that'll be impacted.
leaguebus
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:58 p.m.
Cost of living is a double edged sword. The most prosperous states have a higher cost of living because the workers make more and more work.
leaguebus
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:35 p.m.
The RTW legislation was a dishonest ploy by a Lame Duck legislature to put money into the pockets of the 1%. Same as the business tax cuts. There is no evidence that RTW brings jobs to states, just look at most of the RTW states, there economies stink. There is no evidence that tax cuts to the "job creators" do anything positive for jobs. But, the Republicans persist because they drank the 1% cool aid, which, of course, comes with billions of dollars for their bank accounts. Now, when we elect a 1%er to the governorship, what do we expect? Andrew Carnegie should be smiling in his grave. He became the richest man in the country off the sweat and deaths of his workers. It took a united work force to make things better for the themselves which helped build a strong middle class and unequaled prosperity for workers and companies. Merry Christmas to the Rickster and his merry band of Lame Ducks, your presents will be under your Christmas trees in 2014.
Polecat
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:14 p.m.
You lefties sure do stick to your talking points. Just like union workers, no original thought is possible must listen to what the masters tell you to say.
grye
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:13 p.m.
That remark is ridiculous. How does my right to not join a union make a difference to the 1%? Sounds like someone who is envious of those who have made it and you didn't. You can still join a union if you wish. This bill doesn't prevent you from your right to join.
packman
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:53 p.m.
What a joke. China just bought A123 from us...this after BO gave them a $250 million grant and Jennifer Granholm gave them another $125 million in grants and tax credits. Santa Claus is in the White House. Go serenade him. Get a life...
Superior Twp voter
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:50 p.m.
Yes. Green energy..... what a value. Not.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:52 p.m.
So the statistics show that RTW states make $1,500 less than those in unions. Ok, please show how much a union member pays each year to the union. How much does a UAW member pay to the union?
maallen
Tue, Dec 11, 2012 : 4:04 p.m.
Clownfish, "Freeloaders." What do we do about people who didn't vote for Obama? Are they freeloaders?
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:17 p.m.
Any member of a union can ask to have an election to DE-certify the union in the workplace, majority rules. Now Other People will pay for Free Loaders and Takers.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:05 p.m.
Amoc, If we go with your range of what UAW members pay to be in the union, then making $1,500 less in a RTW state is basically a wash. Now the unions have to step up to the plate and convince their members why a union is good. If they do that, then they have nothing to worry about. They will keep seeing the flow of money coming in. I suspect the unions are afraid that once they are forced to let their membership "vote" by means of witholding membership dues they will see that majority of their "members" do not agree with them.
AMOC
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:29 p.m.
Iy used to be one hours' wages / week, with that upped to 1.5 hours / week if the person was working 10 or more hours of OT in a pay period. So a UAW member pays the UAW mandatory dues of between $1000 and $2500+, depending on classification, when they were hired (there's a two-tier wage system in most UAW plants now) and the amount of overtime worked.
Technojunkie
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:44 p.m.
Sounds like kinder, gentler union mob intimidation. 'Tis the season I guess.
mikael
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:37 p.m.
Finally we can have the option of saving our dues from unions that go too far in protecting the employees that should not be protected.
treetowncartel
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:56 p.m.
Feeling entitled I hope.
Alan Goldsmith
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:25 p.m.
This is a silly waste of time. Snyder is just going to bring out hot chocolate, thank them for their input and then go back into his house and laugh himself to sleep.
st.julian
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:23 p.m.
Singing will not help, the only hope is a sense of reason and shame. The shame comes from not sticking to his early conviction that this measure would be devisive. Reason should follow from looking at fact based results in others states, not the conservative rhetoric, of the impact. Reality should also come into play, how many new jobs have been created due to the policies adopted in the last two years? What happened to economic gardening, grow them at home, rather than compete with other states? Why is he so in favor of driving wages toward the minimum wage?
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:15 p.m.
This must be the Talking Point put forth by media elites. it lacks any common sense or logic but it keeps propping up on web blogs. The proposal failed, so how does a failed proposal "force" anybodies hand? The RTW folks told us that prop 2 was unnecessary because they had no plans to force RTW legislation through. The same people told us that the anti-gay marriage law would not effect civil union contracts that municipalities had, then they went to court to make sure it DID effect those contracts.
AMOC
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:24 p.m.
Snyder said the issue would be divisive, and it is. Snyder said he didn't have right to work on his agenda, and he did *not* initiate this issue or lead the initial effort in the legislature. Several union and their PACs, seeking to pre-empt any legislative attempt to rebalance power between government employee unions and the elected officials forced the issue onto Snyders agenda by paying hundreds of signature collectors to force absolute union rights into our state constitution. Then they spent millions of dollars in support of the failed Propositions to amend the constitution and continue the SEIU skim of Medicaid / Medicare reimbursement to pay for home health aids. I say let the union fatcats reap the whirlwind they've sown.
marxalert
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:07 p.m.
Labor supporters say are paid less in RTW States BUT they also claim these same workers benefit from the bargaining process. Where's the logic?
Ron Granger
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:07 p.m.
The problem with this was the lack of due process and opportunity for public comment. It was rushed through in the middle of the night, in an effort to derail any input from the taxpayers and people of Michigan. Regardless of the legislation, that is wrong. This is passing laws behind walls and gated communities.
bobslowson
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:44 p.m.
Obamacare was debated for months and months before it was passed. Apples and oranges!
Superior Twp voter
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:48 p.m.
Yep, Barry, Reid, and Pelosi have never done anything like that.
Michisbest
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:35 p.m.
I was against right to work on Friday but I read over the weekend that a "union backed arbitrator" reinstated the 13 Chrysler workers that were caught drinking on the job. Sign the bill!
leaguebus
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:14 p.m.
Echoing Semper, the arbitrator was agreed upon by BOTH parties and the company lost this time. There are just as many times that the unions lose.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:29 p.m.
SemperFi, If you would have read the article over the weekend you would know that because of the union contract with Chrysler, the company was forced to hire the employees back. Chrysler said they didn't want to, but because of the union they had to.
FredMax
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:18 p.m.
SemperFi, that makes the point even more so. Forced to join a Union... that wastes bargaining power on abusive members rather than saving it for legitimate hard working members.
SemperFi
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:06 p.m.
Arbitrators are agreed upon by both parties.
Milton Shift
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:34 p.m.
Snyder deserves a new home - prison. No more Christmas carols for that guy.
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 10:23 p.m.
I never came across a "milton" i liked. FACT.
Basic Bob
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:30 p.m.
If I worked in a union job, I would feel obligated to join the union and pay my dues. No matter if it is a legal requirement. Are there that many irresponsible or disgruntled union members in Michigan that will take advantage of the right to not pay dues? Do unions really require this legal protection?
FredMax
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:30 p.m.
Going to the man's private resident; where his wife and children live. Smells like intimidation tactics to me. Is that what you are all about?
Superior Twp voter
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:46 p.m.
It IS who they are, and what they are about. Also a money-laundering operation for the Dem party.
maallen
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:27 p.m.
Sounds like a union!
treetowncartel
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:27 p.m.
The odd part about throwing those who wish to go unrpresented, getting something for nothing, is that I always thought Republicans were opposed to entitlements.
working poor @ u of m
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:13 p.m.
Yes, Republicans do oppose entitlements. They are also the group that benefits the most.
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:26 p.m.
Divide and conquer! Way to go Slick Rick. No wonder you would never answer questions when you were campaigning. You are about as tough as a gummy worm.
northside
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:07 p.m.
The 1% isn't content having 40% of the nation's wealth. Gutting labor unions will give them even more, as the country continues to transition to a high profit/low wage Wal-Mart style economy.
harry b
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:40 p.m.
It will make us competitive.
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:57 p.m.
And look at the frightening thing they have done to the UM! A horrible place to work surrounded by a retched city environment! I would note that GM went bankrupt AFTER moving thousands of jobs South. Meanwhile the executive salaries have not matched union concessions, have they?
Basic Bob
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
Do you think the fat cats want us all shopping and working at Walmart? Except the Walton family of course. They would love to put more money in more people's pockets, because they inevitably spend it. Unions want to put more money in their members pockets, and forget about the company, the poor, or the country. Look what they did to Flint.
notyou
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:06 p.m.
This is going to work as well as the Save Blimpy Burger Facebook page!
GoNavy
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1 p.m.
"Labor supporters also cite statistics that show employees in right-to-work states make 3.2 percent less than workers in free-bargaining states, or about $1,500 less per year." There are lies, there are d*amned lies, and there are statistics.
GoNavy
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:17 p.m.
Fact: Non right-to-work states are 1.5% larger than right to work states. So obviously, if you support a larger amount of land for the State of Michigan, you should oppose right to work laws. See how that works? You can do that work yourself from free information available from Wikipedia. It took me just under 5 mins.
Brad
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:11 p.m.
And there are people that try to substitute worn out aphorisms for facts.
LindaJ
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:58 p.m.
Christmas carols as part of a protest? Tasteless. My union requested my participation and I declined.
northside
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:45 p.m.
Singing songs is a remarkably mild and restrained form of protest given the changes Snyder is about to bring about.
4 Fingers
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:54 p.m.
Seriously? Lemme know where some of you protestors live so I can blow an air horn at your house during your dinner.
northside
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:09 p.m.
We live everywhere. Just blow your air horn and many of us will hear it, no matter where you live.
B2Pilot
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:29 p.m.
"Labor supporters also cite statistics that show employees in right-to-work states make 3.2 percent less than workers in free-bargaining states, or about $1,500 less per year. " What they fail to mention is that those same workers were making less BEFORE they bacame a right to work state! Check the wages prior
B2Pilot
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:49 p.m.
Clown -it gives employees a choice, which is nice isn't it! :)
clownfish
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
So it does nothing for employees. Nice. Less money for wages, less money to spend on goods and services.
A2anon
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:56 p.m.
Oh, please.
average joe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:31 a.m.
"Christmas carols" I didn't know we could still say that...... This is encouraging.
Bonsai
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:10 p.m.
I hope they sing channukah oh channukah just to piss you off
4Bells
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:30 a.m.
You might as well carol to Ebenezer Scrooge. This governor has never changed his mind, or agenda. He is bent on making Michigan a corporate empire state with lower wages, less benefits, oppressed workers, deprived retirees, penniless poor & huge corporate CEO profits & always has been. One tough nerd? One cruel, cold-hearted, narrow-visioned dictatorial monarch...........a government of business, by business & for business.
grye
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 6:46 p.m.
Please point to the "hidden agenda" where you have obtained this slimy bit of information. Or did you make this up based upon your different pointsof view from the governor's? It would be interesting how you would run the state to make it profitable, reduce the debt, increase business, pay for services, etc. Everyone has an opinion. No one has an alternative plan other than to whine and complain.
GoNavy
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:02 p.m.
Hmm. I wouldn't say that our former status as a "workers paradise" did much for the state - look where we are now.
4 Fingers
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:52 p.m.
And I bet you shop at Walmart? Keep giving money to the jobs over seas....
HappySenior
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:08 a.m.
New business is attracted to states with right to work laws. New business means new jobs. Good for Snyder and the Michigan legislature for standing up for workers and more jobs.
dairy6
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 9:45 p.m.
yes dont bother posting facts. if we just keep lying to ourselves eventually it will all come true.
leaguebus
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 3:08 p.m.
Good post Domey, but it's hard to persuade with facts these days. Oklahoma went right to work in 2001, right after NAFTA and it still lost 50,000 jobs in the next ten years despite being the Mecca of RTW. When a company decides to reduce its labor costs, they don't move to a RTW state, they move where they can pay less than a dollar an hour. Sorry, RTW is a political move against unions by the 1%, it has nothing to do with more jobs.
Domey
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:47 p.m.
Please explain why: Drawing on figures from the BLS, the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, and the Census Bureau, the Detroit Free Press reports: One of the 10 states with the highest per-capita income in 2010 was a right-to-work state. Of the 10 states with the lowest per-capita income, seven have right-to-work laws. Among the 10 fastest-growing states, three are right-to-work states. Among the 10 states with the most residents without health insurance in 2011, six were right-to-work states. That information quoted from: http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2012/1207/Michigan-to-join-right-to-work-states.-A-blow-to-unions/%28page%29/2 Right-to-work will not result in more jobs, it will result in lower pay and reduced benefits for workers along with higher profits for executives and corporate shareholders. We all know how well that "trickle-down" theory works, it doesn't. New business may be attracted to right-to-work states, but they are also attracted to other countries, anywhere the labor is cheap. The living conditions for the workers are not of any concern to them. I'm quite certain they would prefer slave labor. Maybe we can legislate that for them. Shouldn't be a problem for them to buy enough politicians to get that passed through. The good part is that their greed knows no boundaries. Eventually, that will be their downfall. Tom Todd is right, more jobs at dollar stores, part-time jobs, making minimum wage, with no benefits. If they're lucky, workers will be able to find the 3 jobs they will need to work in order to make a "living". More jobs isn't always better, nor is there a guarantee they will even materialize.
OLDTIMER3
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:22 p.m.
More jobs where the rich get richer and the workers get screwed.
Tom Todd
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:28 a.m.
more jobs at dollar stores.
Brendan Keeley
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:05 a.m.
Sounds like a nice idea, and hope to participate however I am afraid there is little that can be done. Governor Snyder has revealed himself to be a dishonest person, who promised to help our state, and instead has decided to launch us into a two year political war. Because of his dishonesty, there cannot be any compromise with him, because we don't know when he will change his mind again. Once he went down this path there was no going back, and even if he were to reverse his position yet again I do not think it possible for him to regain the trust he has lost. I am embarrassed that such a man comes from our community.
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 6:11 a.m.
First, I'd like to thank Governor Snyder for signing the Right to work. It's about time! This is one of the best things to happen in a long, long time. Now, for the truth..... It doesn't matter WHO is Governor, there will always be people complaining. Jennifer Granholm was the cast mold of an AWFUL Governor. I am relieved she is gone and has been gone! Governor Snyder is a good Governor. He is doing the things that need to be done and he has proved he can balance the budget! It is typical for the good ole Liberals (most likely) to go stand outside a mans home and protest him by singing Christmas Carols! (Way to mock the holiday by the way, Christmas Carols are not meant for you to try and act immature) Why don't you spend some precious time with your families? Instead, you demonstrate for everyone what 'class-less" acts you really are! That's another problem with Michiganders and Americans overall - All we do is stand divided amongst ourselves, instead of working with and supporting each other.
Paul Taylor
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:01 p.m.
Obvious troll is obvious.
Honest Abe
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 6:40 p.m.
I can see the liberals and greedy union members have read my comment. LOL!
GP
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 7:01 a.m.
You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch lol
Nice One!
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:28 a.m.
It's not a "union position," it's a job. Just your wording shows how entitled the unions are feeling these days. Unless the union is paying my salary and doing the hiring, it's just a job. Saying you own it doesn't make it so.
Polecat
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 8:40 p.m.
Yup, unions have never built anything, all they do is suck the life out of businesses.
Nice One!
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:32 a.m.
I'm not anti-union. You guys work hard and take your task seriously. Just don't tell me I have to pay you so I can work. And please stop calling these jobs "union positions." It sounds bad to regular people who see you as an independent group bent on controlling other people's employees.
P. Marie Mason
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:21 a.m.
I say, if you don't want to pay union dues, don't apply for a union position. Its that simple! Otherwise, pay your measly dues based on a very small portion of your fairly bargained-for pay, which may include benefits, also fairly bargained-for, and be glad you have a group of dedicated union workers (some who aren't paid for their duties of service) who are their to support you when someone wants to trample on your union rights or break your employer/union contract.
Ed Kimball
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:15 p.m.
And if I don't like the Michigan legislature and governor, can I still live here but stop paying my state taxes?
SemperFi
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:58 p.m.
The thing about unions is that they are democratic. If you don't agree with your union's position, you vote for leadership that represent your idea of what the union should be supporting. It's the American way.
john214
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:55 p.m.
It would be helpful if both union members, the general public, and the media would recognize that unions are not required to bargain as exclusive representatives. The National Labor Relations Board enables them to do so — an important difference. Unions may bargain on behalf of every worker in the company. But the Supreme Court has ruled that the NLRA's protections are "not limited to labor organizations which are entitled to recognition as exclusive bargaining agents of employees . . . 'Members only' contracts have long been recognized" (Retail Clerks v. Lion Dry Goods, 1962). Unions can negotiate contracts that apply only to dues-paying members and exclude non-dues-paying members. The only argument against RTW is the "free rider" issue, and it is without merit. Unions can bargain for members only, they choose not to, for reasons having to to with members due, nothing more.
NoPC
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:53 p.m.
Well, what if its the ONLY job to apply for and your family is hungry AND you disagree with all the Union politics???? Then don't apply??? Get a clue...
Unusual Suspect
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:45 p.m.
I say if you don't like workplace freedom, don't live in a state that has it. It's that simple.
Dan r OBryan
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 4:40 a.m.
he is a business man .jenny did nothing for 8 years. Something has to be done. Remember dont go to jail for disturbing the peace .he hasn't purposed a get out of jail Free bill. Singing wont soften his heart .Its business.
Tom Whitaker
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 10:52 p.m.
And Engler left her with a $350 million dollar deficit, too.
arborarmy
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 5:17 p.m.
"For Jenny's fist 6 years the democrats contolled the house." Wow. Just wow. Completely wrong. Republicans controlled both houses of the legislature for Granholm's first six years; they controlled the State Senate for her last two. Never in her time in office did Democrats control both houses. But don't let any actual facts get in the way of your opinion.
leaguebus
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 2:56 p.m.
For the record Jenny cut Michigans budget by almost $1B during her tenure. This was the biggest budget cut of any state in the country. She left the state 17th in Business Climate, one place better than it is now. She fought to preserve funding to education, unlike the Rickster who gave his business buddies a $2B tax cut and finished off the already stressed education system with a $1B cut every year into the future. he and his merry band are turning this state into a northern Mississippi one year at a time. What does this mean, low taxes and private schools for the haves and nothing for the have nots.
Michisbest
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:40 p.m.
Elijah For Jenny's fist 6 years the democrats contolled the house.
Elijah Shalis
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 1:31 p.m.
Maybe Jenny did nothing because the Republican controlled legislature wouldnt let her.
tdw
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 12:25 p.m.
Tom.....and what do you base your statement on ? Did I miss something ?
Tom Todd
Mon, Dec 10, 2012 : 11:28 a.m.
he is already on a beach somewhere.