So called "right-to-work" legislation has emerged from the Republican-led Kentucky Senate. The measure will likely run into heavy opposition in the Democratic-controlled House.
Right-to-work laws typically prohibit a requirement of workers to join a union or make a donation in lieu of membership to be employed at a particular company. Senate President Robert Stivers says Kentucky Chamber of Commerce officials often hear from commercial interests asking for a state right-to-work law. "They talked about the percentages of companies that will not even look at this state unless we pass right to work legislation," said Stivers.
Opponents of the measure, including Lexington Senator Reggie Thomas say Kentucky is already making gains in the jobs category. "Whatever we're doing here in Kentucky, we're going in the right direction as a non 'right to work' state," said Thomas.
Senate Minority Floor Leader Ray Jones voted no on the measure, arguing no one can be compelled to join a union. The 'right to work' bill passed out of the Senate on a 24-to-12 vote. ?
