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SJ 271

Constitutional amendment (first reference); right to work.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Obenshain

Virginia constitutional amendment establishing right-to-work protections prohibiting mandatory union membership or dues as employment conditions.

Passed by indefinitely in Privileges and Elections (8-Y 7-N)
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Bill Summary · SJ 271

Legislative bill overview

SJ 271 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish a "right to work" provision in Virginia's state constitution, preventing mandatory union membership or dues payments as a condition of employment. This is a first reference constitutional amendment, meaning it requires passage in two consecutive legislative sessions before going to voters for ratification.

Why is this important

Right-to-work laws fundamentally reshape labor relations by allowing workers to decline union membership while still benefiting from union-negotiated contracts and protections. This directly affects union funding and power, as well as worker choice and bargaining dynamics—making it a significant policy shift with statewide implications for both organized labor and individual workers across Virginia's economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Union funding and viability: Unions argue that non-members receiving contract benefits without paying dues creates a "free rider" problem that weakens their negotiating power and financial sustainability
  • Worker protections and wages: Labor advocates contend that weaker unions result in lower wages and fewer workplace protections, while proponents argue workers benefit from choice and reduced mandatory fees
  • Constitutional vs. statutory approach: Embedding this as a constitutional amendment makes reversal extremely difficult; critics question whether such a major labor policy change belongs in the state constitution rather than ordinary law

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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