When Missouri’s current governor campaigned for office, he promised to push through a right to work law. He just signed the bill into law, making Missouri the 28th state to have a right to work law.

The National Law Review recently published an article that outlined the provisions of Missouri’s new law.

What Is a Right to Work Law?

Right to work laws enable employees who do not want to join a union to work at a unionized company without having to pay monthly union dues.

Currently, in states that do not have right to work laws, workers in unionized companies must pay union dues even if they do not join the union. The reasoning behind this is that all employees reap the benefits from the bargaining agreements negotiated for compensation and other perks. Therefore, they should help pay for the work being done by unions.

Does New York Have a Right to Work Law?

No, New York is one of the 22 states that do not have right to work laws. Companies are not allowed to discriminate against non-union workers or deny job applicants employment if the employee does not want to join the union. However, employers can require such employees pay union dues.

Federal Laws Governing Unions

Federal law established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), and the NLRB has the authority to enact rules and procedures for unions and businesses. NLRB rules affect activities such as entering into collective bargaining and other attempts to break up unions.

If you are an employer and have questions about unions and employee’s rights, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced employment and labor law attorney.

Stephen Hans & Associates has decades of labor law experience and can provide you with sound legal advice and representation.