Indiana joins right-to-work ranks, gov. signs bill [View all]

[The Straight Story]

Indiana joins right-to-work ranks, gov. signs bill

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Indiana has become the first Rust Belt state to enact the contentious right-to-work labor law prohibiting labor contracts that require workers to pay union representation fees.

Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels signed the bill Wednesday after it passed the Senate following weeks of discord that saw House Democrats boycott the Legislature and thousands of protesters gather at the Statehouse.

Indiana is the first state in a decade to enact a right-to-work law.

Supporters say the measure helps create a pro-business climate that attracts employers and increases jobs. Opponents say right to work leads to lower wages and poorer quality jobs.

Protesters say the fight isn't over and note that Indiana passed right to work once before but repealed it. Some plan to distribute leaflets at Sunday's Super Bowl.

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