ST. PAUL, Minn., March 13 (UPI) -- A proposed constitutional amendment that would make Minnesota a "right to work" state sparked a protest by union workers at the state Capitol, police said.
Some 1,500 pro-labor activists showed up Monday to oppose a measure that passed the Minnesota Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee on a vote of 7-6, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported.
Union leaders charge the proposed amendment is designed to weaken unions and ultimately drive down wages, eliminate jobs, reduce benefits and deteriorate workplace safety.
The amendment goes to the Senate Rule Committee, where its sponsor, Republican Sen. Dave Thompson, said passage is necessary to protect individual choice and freedom.
"I don't believe in this country work should be a privilege," Thompson said.
He said the ability to work for whomever you chose without having to pay a third party is a primary freedom that protects economic rights.
