A union security clause simply says there is no free lunch. It says that someone can't expect to enjoy the good wages, fringe benefits, and job protections negotiated by union members without sharing the costs of winning and preserving those gains. Under a union security clause, non-members pay only representation expenses. Those with valid religious objections may donate the entire fee to charity. It protects no worker against an unfair supervisor.
Labor law requires unions to negotiate and enforce contracts for members and non-members alike.
If unions ignore these obligations, they face stiff financial penalties. HB 221 strikes at the fundamental principle of unionism. By working together for the common good, we are able to make our jobs good occupations with fair wages, decent benefits, and due process protections. No individual worker can do that by himself or herself. HB 221 threatens employers' ability to negotiate contracts that suit them.