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Right to Work in West Virginia Close to Becoming a Reality


Readers might remember that I posted a recent update on the right to work legislation currently pending in the West Virginia Legislature.  (West Virginia Senate Passes Right to Work Legislation).  As I noted, the next step was for the West Virginia House to consider the bill, likely pass it, and then send it to the Governor's desk for signature.

Late last week, the West Virginia House did just that and passed the right to work measure by a 54 - 46 vote.  To the surprise of no one, West Virginia Governor Early Ray Tomblin subsequently issued a veto threat of the legislation.  Assuming this happens, the legislation would go back to the Senate to consider.  Remember, to override the Governor's veto, the legislation requires only a majority vote.  With Republicans controlling a majority of the Senate, an override of the veto would be a mere formality.  (Of course, this is barring Republican Senators switching their votes and voting against an override.  However, something tells me that Republicans in the Senate will work to ensure they do not lose their majority control and no votes switch sides).  Senate President Bill Cole stated earlier this week that if the veto were to occur, the Senate would "quickly" take up the legislation again.

Keep an eye on this one.  We likely are not far off from West Virginia becoming the next right to work state.

For additional information:  https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/02/04/amid-rancourous-debate-west-virginia-sets-right-to-work-bill-on-path-to-near-certain-passage/

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