Workers Overwhelmingly Oppose "Right to Work" at HB251 Hearing

On February 16, workers from across the state came together to oppose HB251 and “right-to-work” legislation in front of the House Business and Labor Committee.

“Right-to-work” laws have proven to depress wages, working conditions and safety on the job. Study after study have shown that “right-to-work” laws do not create jobs and employers do not prioritize it when considering whether to relocate.

Two of Montana’s largest private sector employers attended the hearing to oppose “right to work” because they recognize the benefits unions provide. Both NorthWestern Energy and the operators of the Sibanye-Stillwater mine voiced opposition to HB251. Sibanye-Stillwater recognized that HB251 would endanger workers and pointed out that unions improve the safety of their mines, because unions promote a “culture of safety.”

“We have a tradition here in Montana of strong communities. We take care of one another,” said AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Al Ekblad, “Right to Work curtails Montanans’ freedoms to negotiate as both employers and employees see fit. Not only will HB251 restrict workers’ voices, it will also undermine apprenticeship and training facilities that employers rely on and employees need to get good paying jobs.”

Businesses want highly skilled workers. HB251 would undermine joint training and apprenticeship programs, which are self-funded by workers and employers. RTW eliminates funding for well-respected training and apprenticeship programs that benefit business and our communities. Union workers provide stability, a streamlined way of resolving differences, a safer work environment and less turnover.

HB251 will not create jobs but depress wages and safety. Montana workers and even two of Montana’s largest private sector employers agree, “right to work” is wrong.

In states with similar laws, wages for workers are significantly lower. According to a recent study by the Illinois Economic Policy Institute “Right to Work” states experience 16% lower wages for police officers and firefighters, 11% lower wages for construction workers, 7% lower wages for registered nurses, and 3% lower wages for manufacturing workers. According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, construction workers in “right-to-work” Idaho earn almost $9,000 less per year than in Montana. HB251 is wrong for Montana’s workers.