A bill opposed by unions has been adopted by the Missouri Senate, despite a seven hour filibuster by Democrats. The measure, which is largely supported by Republicans, would require public employees to give annual written consent for union dues to be taken from their paychecks.
Advocates of the legislation call it “paycheck protection”, while opponents refer to it as “paycheck deception”.
Senator Bob Onder (R-Lake St. Louis) supported the bill and said it deals with first amendment rights.
“The members don’t really have a choice in it. If the unions are not being required to go to their members and ask for the money, that makes the job of the union boss very easy. They can just sit back and be a political power broker and decide which campaign they are going to support or oppose,” said Onder.
“There are men in all areas who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters.”
Jamilah Nasheed (D-St. Louis) opposed the bill and said the legislation would end unions.
“How many people within the union movement came before you, came to the committee hearing, and said this is what they wanted you to push? No one,” said Nasheed.
The measure, which exempts first responders like law enforcement and firefighters, heads back to the House with changes. If the votes stand, both chambers have enough to override an expected veto by Governor Jay Nixon.
