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SB 5

Labor: collective bargaining; requirement for agency fee for nonunion members; allow in bargaining agreements and as condition of employment in public sector. Amends secs. 9, 10 & 15 of 1947 PA 336 (MCL 423.209 et seq.).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Anthony and 19 co-sponsors

Bill allows Michigan public sector employers and unions to require non-union workers to pay agency fees for representation services, reversing current right-to-work protections.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON LABOR
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5

Legislative bill overview

SB 5 would amend Michigan's Public Employment Relations Act to allow public sector unions and employers to negotiate agency fees (also called "fair share" fees) that require non-union members to pay for union representation services. Currently, Michigan law prohibits such mandatory fees for non-union public employees. This change would reverse protections established under Michigan's right-to-work law for public sector workers.

Why is this important

This represents a fundamental shift in Michigan's labor policy, directly affecting public sector employees' take-home pay and unions' financial stability. The bill would allow public employers (schools, municipalities, state agencies) to require non-union workers to contribute to union costs, potentially increasing union revenue substantially while reducing individual workers' discretionary income. The outcome depends heavily on one's view of union representation value versus individual choice in public employment.

Potential points of contention

  • Individual choice vs. collective benefit: Opponents argue workers should choose whether to fund unions; supporters contend non-union members benefit from union-negotiated contracts and should share costs
  • Public sector labor costs: Critics worry increased union funding could lead to higher public sector wage demands and tax burden; proponents argue stronger unions improve working conditions without necessarily raising costs unsustainably
  • Philosophical divide on right-to-work: This directly challenges Michigan's 2012 right-to-work law; represents competing visions about whether labor organizing or individual economic freedom takes priority

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

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