Union leaders said their members and supporters will rally at the state capitol, as lawmakers continue hearings on Senate Bill 5, 10TV's Danielle Elias reported.
The Republican-backed measure would end collective bargaining rights for state workers and restrict teachers, firefighters, police, and university employees.
The bill was proposed by Sen. Shannon Jones, and is supported by Gov. John Kasich.
If the bill passes, it would end collective bargaining rights for state workers, and set up a merit-based pay system.
SLIDESHOW: Images From Report
Police and firefighters, who cannot strike, would lose binding arbitration, and it could weaken bargaining ability for teachers.
Supporters said the measure could help control spending and provide more flexibility for cash-strapped governments.
Opponents have called the bill misguided and said it will hurt Ohio workers.
The Ohio Democratic party criticized procedures at the Statehouse on Tuesday, saying that only 750 people had been allowed inside.
"This is the people's house. Ohioans came from all over the state today to make their voices heard," Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern said. "To make them stand in the freezing cold and snow today is an unfathomable and unprecedented step."
Statehouse officials said just after 1:30 p.m. that they would allow 500 more people into the rotunda area.
Thousands of protesters showed up during two hearings last week to voice their opinion of the bill.
Watch 10TV News HD and refresh 10TV.com for continuing coverage.
Previous Stories:
February 17, 2011: Workers Pack Statehouse In Protest Of Union Bill
February 15, 2011: Unions Protest 'Collective Bargaining Killer'
More Information:
©2011 by 10TV.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
No comments:
Post a Comment