Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss threats to collective bargaining rights, the implications of Senate Bill 1 (SB1) in Ohio and the broader impact of federal policies on the labor movement.
Burga highlighted the threat the Trump Administration’s executive orders pose to the rights of federal employees, emphasizing that over 80,000 federal workers in Ohio alone are affected. He underscored the importance of collective bargaining for securing fair working conditions and noted the labor movement's commitment to fighting these changes through litigation, legislation and mobilization.
Next, Burga addressed the implications of SB1, recently signed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. The new law, which includes provisions that could weaken collective bargaining, is seen as part of a broader strategy to undermine union power. Burga shared his concern that SB1 could be a precursor to making Ohio a So Called “Right-to-Work” state, similar to efforts seen in other states. He reaffirmed the labor movement's readiness to oppose such measures, drawing parallels to past successful campaigns against anti-union legislation.
Finally, Burga discussed the broader impact of federal policies on the labor movement, particularly the influence of Project 2025. He noted that these policies aim to divide and weaken unions but have also spurred increased unionization efforts. Burga highlighted the recent increases in union membership and organizing activities as workers rally in response to these challenges, demonstrating solidarity and resilience.
To hear more from Burga, listen to the show above.