(PoliticMo Photo)
— While many state legislators shy from the issue, an outside group plans to file an initiative petition this month to place a so-called “right to work” constitutional amendment on the 2012 ballot.
Greg Johns, vice president of Missourians for Right to Work,’ intends to file the petition with the secretary of state’s office some time this month, according to sources familiar with the process.
The proposal, if enacted, would outlaw any contract that would require an employee to pay union fees, and would not allow agreements between businesses and unions that would make union fees a condition of employment.
Supporters argue the measure would increase Missouri’s economic competitivity, placing the state on a level playing field with many of the neighboring states.
Opponents, however, argue the measure is about targeting unions, not job creation.
“Missourians are calling for their elected leaders to work for jobs, and we can’t afford another wasted session,” said Cathy Sherwin, spokeswoman for the Missouri AFL-CIO. “Pushing anti-worker laws like ‘right to work’ and ‘paycheck protection’ aren’t going to create any jobs and won’t get our economy on track.”
In the legislature, a handful of lawmakers, including Sen. Rob Mayer and Jason Crowell, have pre-filed similar proposals. State Rep. Donna Lichtenegger is expected to file companion legislation in the House. But in an election year, the controversial proposal is not expected to gain traction.
email: eli [at] politicmo.com | phone: 417.597.3873 | twitter: @eyokley 
