It is often said that all education decisions are political decisions. Millions of dollars are spent annually on public education. Everyone wants better schools and better education for America's children. Politicians are eager to prove they've got the best ideas to "fix" our public schools. But many politicians are really enemies of public education, seeking to damage - or do away with - public schools for their political gain.
As this important election year continues, check back here to learn more about the education issues that will matter as you cast your votes this fall.
In 2008, Michigan may be the target of a scam ballot initiative called “Right to Work.” Much like other deceptive ballot initiatives, this out-of-state proposal twists the truth, pretending to be about everyone's right to have a job. But its true intentions are simply an attack on workers' rights and unions.
“Right to Work” doesn't have anything to do with your rights to a job. All this law would do is allow workers to receive the benefits of being in a union without having to pay dues or agency fees. It forces unions to spend resources and members' dues on these “free riders.”
Federal law already protects workers who don't want to be members of a union, but everyone must pay their fair share for negotiating and administering their contract—that's just fair.
Proponents of this anti-worker legislation say that it has economic benefits. But the facts from other states tell a very different story. The average worker in a “Right to Work” state makes $5,900 less than their counterpart in a free bargaining/union state. Workers in “Right to Work” states are also less likely to have health benefits.
Of particular interest to public school employees, “Right to Work” states spend $2,260 less per pupil on K–12 education, and high school dropout rates run 18 percent higher in “Right to Work” states.
This scam is bad for Michigan's economy, Michigan's students and Michigan's workers. Don't fall into this trap! If you are approached to sign a petition supporting “Right to Work,” don't sign it!
MEA Votes will be bringing you regular updates and facts about this dangerous initiative that may be coming to our state. Make sure to inform your friends, family and neighbors about this scam and urge them to not sign “Right to Work” petitions. And encourage your fellow MEA members to sign up to receive this e-mail newsletter at their home e-mail address.