LANSING, Mich., March 8 (UPI) -- Hundreds of protesters converged on the Michigan Statehouse Tuesday demanding the defeat of a bill that could threaten union contracts.
The Republican majority in the state Senate scheduled a vote Wednesday on the measure, which would give greater power to state managers appointed to oversee the finances of hard-pressed municipalities and school districts, the Detroit Free Press reported. Randy Richardville, the majority leader, said that with 26 Republicans to 12 Democrats, the bill is expected to pass.
The Local Government and School District Fiscal Accountability Act would give state managers the power to end union contracts and overrule local officials on financial decisions, The Detroit News said.
More than 1,000 union members and supporters came to Lansing for the demonstration. They chanted "Kill the bill" and "Shame on you," although those who were in the Senate chamber watching as Democrats tried vainly to amend the bill remained quiet for the most part.
"We didn't create financial crisis, we've given up wages and concessions in benefits over the years," Mike Kelly, a retired teacher from Livonia told the Free Press. "This is about power."
