The West Michigan Policy Forum today thanked state business coalition members for taking a brave stand against repealing the state’s landmark right-to-work law. 

WMPF Policy Advisor Jase Bolger, in an open letter, said the newly signed repeal will ultimately hurt Michigan residents by ending worker freedom and hindering our state’s ability to become a top 10 state economically.

“We knew the odds were stacked against us,” Bolger wrote. “But even as the Governor and Legislature repeatedly touted their desire to repeal right-to-work, the real business leaders in Michigan took a courageous stand against the plan.” 

Business advocates who joined the Workplace Freedom Coalition include: The National Federation of Independent Business, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association of Michigan, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan, Michigan Retailers Association, Small Business Association of Michigan, Mackinac Center for Public Policy, Americans for Prosperity, West Michigan Policy Forum, Grand Rapids Chamber, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, Michigan Freedom Fund, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Great Lakes Education Project, and National Right to Work Committee.

Southwest Michigan First also was recognized for standing against the repeal. 

“Voicing this stance was a brave thing to do given the current political landscape in our state,” Bolger wrote. “As we saw, some business leaders in Michigan were unfortunately too timid to speak out.”

Because accountability is essential when it comes to our elected public servants, the letter stated the state now must hold the Governor and Legislature accountable for their misguided decision to repeal right-to-work.

“We’re not giving up on Michigan’s economic prosperity,” Bolger wrote. “And we’ll continue to make sure our elected officials don’t either.”