Friday, December 7 2012 11:10 AM EST2012-12-07 16:10:10 GMT
(12/06/12) - In Lansing, Gov. Rick Snyder and two Republican leaders in the legislature outlined how they plan to pass Right to Work legislation in Michigan. The GOP leaders spoke with the media Thursday
A bill to enact Right to Work laws has passed the State House with a vote of 58-52.
Friday, December 7 2012 11:09 AM EST2012-12-07 16:09:40 GMT
(12/6/12) - The "Right to Work" legislation is one step closer to becoming law and Governor Rick Snyder wants it on a fast-track. It's been a very passionate and emotional day at the state capitol as
The "Right to Work" legislation is one step closer to becoming law and Governor Rick Snyder wants it on a fast-track.
LANSING (WJRT) -
(12/07/12) - After hours of debate and a very tense day at the state Capitol Thursday, lawmakers are taking a break from controversial Right to Work legislation.
Both the Senate and House will be back next week to start considering separate bills passed in each chamber.
All three bills had passed at least one of the two chambers Thursday.
"We've be voting on those two senate bills Tuesday, I'll be voting 'no', of course, but unfortunately it probably will pass Tuesday and will be signed by the Governor. We'll be a Right to Work state if people can't change people's minds," said Rep. Jim Ananich, (D) Flint.
"I'll obviously vote in favor," says Rep. Joe Graves, (R) Argentine Township. "This is not a bad thing. This will bring jobs to Michigan and people will either chose to join unions or not."
Right to Work legislation makes it illegal to require financial support of a union as a condition of employment. Police and fire unions are not included in the bills.
Opponents say it weakens organized labor's ability to bargain for good wages. Supporters say it is good for workers, the business climate and that it would ultimately boost jobs.
Hundreds if not thousands of protestors made it inside the Capitol Thursday.
State Police did lock the doors and block people from entering after an incident near the Senate chamber. Eight people were arrested. Police even used mace.
Those eight people went before a Lansing judge Friday. None have been charged, according to published reports, as Ingham County's Prosecutor waits for additional reports from police.
All eight, from the Detroit area, are anti Right to Work and declined comment when they left court, according to published reports.
State Police say there is "noticeable police presence" at the state Capitol Friday and it will continue through the weekend and into next week.
