More protests planned in Michigan after Republicans push through right-to-work bill

Republican lawmakers in Michigan’s House and Senate rushed through controversial right-to-work legislation, prompting strong protests from workers, unions and democrats. Supporters say the Workplace Fairness and Equity Act will boost the economy. But opponents say the legislation, which would prohibit union fees as a condition of employment, is driven by corporations who want to boost profits and disempower workers. Before the vote Thursday, Senator Bert Johnson condemned Republicans’ move in an hour-long speech:

“After lord knows how many back-room meetings with Republican leaders and their CEO bosses, after no committee meetings, after no notice to the public, after shutting them out. And in the frenzied rush of the lame duck session, Republican legislators have put forth a right-to-work bill that they intend to jam through this legislative body before the end of the year…”

Police made a number of arrests Thursday. More protests are expected next Tuesday, when Republican supporters aim to finalize the legislation. Michigan’s governor supports the bill, which could be signed as early as next week.