Esme's Blog: Wisconsin: Could It Happen Here?
As fury rages in Wisconsin, Republican legislators in Minnesota are putting forward five bills that union leaders have identified as severely limiting the rights of union workers.
So far Minnesota unions have protested but the legislation is moving forward. When asked whether he would veto the "right to work" legislation, Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton says he doesn't like to threaten vetoes, but he has clearly indicated that's exactly what he will do. Which raises the question, had Dayton not squeaked to victory by 8,000 votes would sweeping laws restricting unions face the likelihood of becoming law here in Minnesota?
Odds are they would.
That being said Wisconsin public sector workers have a sweet deal that seems completely out of step with today's economic reality. Wisconsin public employees now contribute zero to their retirement.
Minnesota workers contribute 5.8 percent. Gov. Scott Walker wants the Wisconsin employees to contribute 6 percent. Minnesota retirees don't have state health care benefits; those in Wisconsin do.
Wisconsin public sector unions have already said they would agree to economic concessions in return for the Governor retreating on his limits on collective bargaining. Wisconsin's generous benefits and a Republican legislature and Governor have created a perfect storm for Wisconsin unions that Minnesota unions appear likely to avoid.
