Dempsey: History of Collective Bargaining in Missouri

Over the course of the last few weeks, many of us have watched with interest the debates going on in the capitols of our sister states concerning collective bargaining and unionization.

Closer to home, legislation [SB1] has been filed that would change Missouri’s current law as it relates to the payment of union dues in private sector businesses. This is one of the more controversial bills set to be debated in the Missouri Senate this session. However, while controversial, this issue is not new. The subject of unionization and the payment of dues go back many years in the history of our state.

In 1978, Missouri voters decided against a “Right-to-Work” initiative that was placed on the ballot. Years later, in 2001, the issue again resurfaced in dramatic fashion when then-Gov. Bob Holden issued an executive order that allowed public employees to collectively bargain. That order was promptly rescinded by his successor, Gov. Matt Blunt, after he took office in 2005.

In the current debate, the issue of public employee collective bargaining is not actually on the table here in Missouri at all (the legislation here deals with private sector employees). It is this issue of public employee collective bargaining that has led to much of the contentious debates and demonstrations we have seen in other states such as Wisconsin and Ohio.

We value the service of our state employees here in Missouri. Unfortunately, with the ongoing difficulties in the economy and the tight state budget, difficult decisions are necessary. Pension reforms, workforce reductions, and benefit changes have already been achieved in the Legislature. Our state employees continue to do their part. In fact, even some of our “Rebooting Government” ideas to make government more efficient have come from those who are on the frontlines providing service to our citizens.

As we continue to work our way through a historic recession, belt-tightening is the order of the day and raising taxes is not an option. In a matter of weeks, the Senate will be considering changes across every function of government. By working together, Missouri has fared well in comparison to much of the country. By continuing to work together, we can lead the nation by demonstrating the fiscal discipline to balance our budget and fund key priorities like education.

As we again take up the subject of unionization for debate, it is good to remember that this issue stretches back many decades in our country’s history and people on both sides have strong feelings. However, I am confident that the discussion here in the Show-Me State will remain informative and civil.

I always appreciate hearing from you. If you have any questions about issues or any legislation pending before the Missouri Senate, please do not hesitate to contact my office.