Detroit Free Press: Unions brace for a GOP onslaught

[marmar]

WASHINGTON -- It's going to be a tough couple of years for America's labor unions.

Having bet heavily on Democrats who suffered deep losses last week, unions representing government workers, teachers, autoworkers and others must prepare for an onslaught from Republicans elected to cut spending and reduce regulations on business. In Michigan, they could mount an attack on what they consider labor-friendly collective bargaining laws.

There's no question that attempts to make union organizing easier under federal law are all but over, with Republicans set to take control of the U.S. House.

Labor forces will have to rely on a Democratic majority in the U.S. Senate and President Barack Obama to battle moves to freeze salaries, slash staffs or break prevailing wage laws.

In Michigan, a huge deficit raises the likelihood that unions will have to take concessions during budget talks and as decisions are made with a renewal of the state employees' contract up next year. ...........(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.freep.com/article/20101107/NEWS15/311070012/1318/Unions-brace-for-a-GOP-onslaught#ixzz14drPxcgu