Unions

People stand shoulder to shoulder on every step of the Montana Capitol. It's hard to count how many but it looks to be between 100 to 200 people. Many hold signs, many wear masks and many don't. Some people are smiling. It looks warm outside for February.

Montana 2021 Legislature

Montana Lawmakers Reject "Right-To-Work" Bill For Private Unions

Kevin Trevellyan

On the heels of voting down other labor related bills, Montana lawmakers decisively rejected a "right-to-work" bill for private unions Tuesday.

Montana 2021 Legislature

Montana Lawmakers Vote On Government COVID-19 Liability Protection, Labor Bills

Kevin Trevellyan

The Montana House Monday offered support to a bill that would limit government civil liability for COVID-19-related issues. Lawmakers also voted down two bills that would’ve impacted public unions.

Montana Republican Rep. Caleb Hinkle introduces House Bill 251 to the House Business and Labor Committee on Feb. 16, 2021.

Montana 2021 Legislature

'Right-To-Work' Bill Draws Lengthy Public Testimony

Kevin Trevellyan

A bill that would prohibit forced private union membership as a job condition in Montana drew lengthy public testimony Tuesday. Republican Rep. Caleb Hinkle of Belgrade told lawmakers his adamant support for right-to-work legislation comes from his time working at a unionized grocery store in 2013.

Sen. Keith Regier peaks into a microphone while a woman looks on.

Montana 2021 Legislature

Public Unions Oppose Bill Banning Member Paycheck Deductions

Kevin Trevellyan

A Montana lawmaker introduced a bill Monday that would require public unions, not employers, to collect dues from members. Union representatives oppose the bill.