New Hampshire Editorial a Textbook Condemnation of 'Right to Work'

An editorial on a website for a half-dozen New Hampshire newspapers powerfully condemns so-called "Right to Work" legislation recently passed by state lawmakers, boldly saying the bill's proponents are lying about their motivations.

The legislation "has nothing to do with workers' rights," the editorial on SeacoastOnline.com states. "The proposed law is designed simply to weaken workers' ability to bargain for fair wages, benefits and working conditions and to tip the already unbalanced scales even further in the direction of rich and powerful business interests."

Supporters are using the tired argument that the bill is needed to protect workers. "That's just a lie," the editorial continues. "Workers didn't ask for this legislation. It is being supported by modern-day robber barons who carefully conceal their actions. It is shilled for by corporate lobbying groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This legislation is about bringing all workers, union and non-union, to their knees."

The editorial applauds Gov. John Lynch for his expected veto of the bill and urges state senators and representatives not to revisit the measure. It makes a strong economic argument for backing off, saying New Hampshire’s economy "is the envy of the nation" while right-to-work states have some of the highest jobless rates in the country.

"Without 'Right to Work' or, as the unions rightly call it, 'Right to Work for Less,' we have one of the lowest unemployment rates, the fastest growing economy in New England, the highest median income. We are the safest state, the best state to raise a family, the healthiest state. Who, other than out-of-state fat cats driven by greed, would want to change the good thing we've got going on here?"

Click here to read the full editorial.