Catherwood LibraryILR School

The Florida Legislature is considering three bills that would weaken the teachers' union, restrict unions' political activities and reduce the benefits of state workers. One bill that made it through committee would prevent public sector unions from deducting union dues from payrolls. The Florida Senate passed a bill that will eliminate teacher tenure for new hires and tie their pay to performance. Both chambers are considering bills that would restrict collective bargaining. While some worry that the bills might trigger the same protests that have been seen in other states, others say that Florida's laws make it difficult. The state has harsh penalties for union members who strike or engage in political activity during work, union membership is voluntary, and public employers have the final say on contract disagreements.