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"Right-To-Work" Supporters Challenged By UAW And Other Unions

DETROIT (WWJ) - The UAW and other unions are fighting to keep "right-to-work" supporters from changing the state's labor laws.

The "We are the People" Coalition is starting a petition drive to create a ballot measure that, if passed, would amend Michigan's constitution and prevent it from becoming a right-to-work state.

"What has really been the catalyst for this is the fact that right-to-work just passed in Indiana, and of course there is this fear that this would snowball and the right-to-work legislation would move through other midwestern states," said Labor Historian Mike Smith."So, I think the labor movement needs to stop it in its tracks."

People who support right-to-work say it would make Michigan a more attractive place to do business.

Opponents believe it's an attempt to break down unions and the protection they offer workers.

"You're going to get a lot of support from citizens, especially since this is a strong union state. Still, there are a lot of folks who belong to unions, who feel threatened, and these people vote," said Smith. "However, since we have a Republican House and a Republican Senate, there is plenty of support for right to work."

Nearly 18 percent of the state's workers belong to a union. Michigan has the fifth-highest percentage of unionized workers in the U.S.

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