Right to Work (Law)
Definition
State laws prohibiting union contracts that require all workers to pay union dues/fees. Weakens unions by creating ‘free rider’ problem where non-paying workers get union benefits. Kentucky is right-to-work state.
Louisville Context
Kentucky’s right-to-work law (passed in 2017 as HB 1) bars requiring union membership or dues as a condition of employment (Kentucky General Assembly, 2017 Regular Session, HB 1, Acts ch. 1). Louisville can’t override state law but can support workers through: (1) encouraging voluntary project labor agreements on city projects, (2) fighting in Frankfort to restore prevailing wage and applying federal Davis-Bacon standards where federal dollars are used, (3) protecting city workers’ organizing rights, (4) partnering with unions on workforce development, (5) encouraging contractors to stay neutral in organizing drives, where state law allows.
Why It Matters
Right-to-work laws correlate with lower wages, fewer benefits, and weaker worker protections. While Louisville can’t change state law, city policy can still support workers and fair wages through contracting standards.
My Proposal
While respecting state law, support workers by encouraging voluntary project labor agreements, fighting in Frankfort to restore prevailing wage, applying federal Davis-Bacon standards where federal dollars are used, protecting organizing rights, and partnering with unions on workforce development.