Photo source: Louisiana House
As previously reported here on this blog, the Paycheck Protection Act was introduced in this Louisiana legislative session in response to the state collecting union dues from state employees. The bill, introduced by Stuart Bishop (R-Lafayette), is scheduled to be heard in committee on the 30th of this month.
Per Keep Louisiana Working, the bill will do the following:
What is paycheck protection?
Paycheck protection aims end the practice of taxpayer sponsored payroll deductions to support government union political machines. We believe unions should use their own staff and resources to collect dues to further their own political platforms and taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize union political activities. Paycheck protection does not prevent individuals from joining unions, it simply seeks to end the union practice of using taxpayer dollars for their own benefit.
Unions use employee-funded dues to promote their extensive political advocacy efforts, regardless of whether taxpayers support their beliefs. And while dues can’t be given directly to candidates, unions can use the funds to advance positions independent of the individual’s wishes. Unions can utilize direct contact tools in support or opposition to political candidates, lobby legislators, purchase media, and provide events for PACs.
Paycheck protection gives public employees the freedom to choose whether or not they want to contribute to a union and fund their political activities. Louisiana’s government unions have a unique and unfair political privilege that is destructive to taxpayers and an indefensible use of state resources.
This bill deserves the support of all that believe that the state should not be in the collections business.
