Communications Workers of America District 4 Administrative Director Frank Mathews joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about the fight to repeal So-Called “Right to Work” legislation in Michigan, the Richard L. Trumka PRO Act and the growing pro-union wave.
Michigan is poised to become the first state to pass and then repeal So-Called “Right to Work” legislation. According to Mathews, the fully Democratic-controlled state will likely pass this legislation in the coming days. Michigan’s House recently approved the repeal of So-Called “Right to Work” laws. Additionally, a Michigan Senate Committee has approved the measure, which means a vote will soon be set before the full Senate. Under the So-Called “Right to Work” laws, Michigan has a high poverty rate and high infant mortality rate, plus workers are 38 percent more likely to die while at the work site.
Mathews then shared his thoughts on the Richard L. Trumka PRO Act. While he admits it will be difficult to pass this legislation based on the make up of the legislature, Mathews believes there are some positives to reintroduce the act. The hope is those who do not support the PRO Act will come under pressure by their constituents to support the workers. He feels this is a long shot, but noted it is possible the current pro-union sentiment could change the landscape.
Since the pandemic, organized labor has made huge gains. Not only are younger workers looking to organize, but there is growing support for unions, which has created the perfect environment for workers to organize. Mathews cited Microsoft, and how members of organized labor developed a management plan that explicitly instructs management to remain neutral in discussions surrounding organizing. Ideally, other businesses will use similar management approaches and create a safe environment to organize, Mathews said.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more.