State Senate passes right to work amendment

The Virginia House of Delegates and State Senate have now both passed legislation to enshrine Virginia’s right to work law in the Constitution.

The constitutional amendment, carried by Delegate Dickie Bell (R-Staunton), prohibits union membership as a condition of employment. Virginia already has a right to work statute, but including right to work in the Constitution solidifies this important pro-business policy.

“Enshrining our right to work law in the Constitution strengthens Virginia’s commitment to being a welcoming and pro-business state,” said Delegate Bell. “This amendment will also further protect hard working Virginians from forced unionization. Like the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the right to work is a fundamental right. It’s time that we finally enshrine this law in our constitution to ensure that it is no longer subject to the whims of the legislature.”

Now that the resolution has passed in the General Assembly, the amendment will go to the voters for final approval during the 2016 election.

Elected to the House of Delegates in 2009, Delegate Bell represents the 20th District, which includes Highland County, portions of Augusta and Nelson Counties, and the Cities of Staunton and Waynesboro. He is currently serving in his fourth term.