Sen. Fitzgerald: Responds to overwhelming support for workplace freedom

Contact: Scott Fitzgerald, (608)-266-5660

[Madison, WI] Earlier today, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce released the findings of a poll conducted by The Tarrance Group which revealed that 69% of Wisconsin voters and 51% of union households support right to work legislation. Senator Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) released the following statement:

“Today’s poll results underscored the fact that the legislature will not be able to complete this session without a vibrant debate on the issue of workplace freedom, which has received overwhelming support from Wisconsin’s voters and garnered widespread media attention.

As we enter into a budget process that we know will present some difficult financial challenges, we have an obligation to the taxpayers to make every effort to ensure that Wisconsin remains an attractive site for business and to foster economic growth. With broad support throughout the state, it would be a missed opportunity to leave the workplace freedom debate out of that equation.

The recent introduction of an Assembly proposal to repeal the prevailing wage further highlights the idea that the legislature must address any policy that artificially increases the financial burden on Wisconsin’s taxpayers. Before we even consider approaching our state’s taxpayers for more revenue, we must first consider any initiatives that could increase Wisconsin’s competitiveness—including workplace freedom, prevailing wage, and the use of Project Labor Agreements.

As we move further into the legislative session, the members of my caucus will continue to gather information on each of these significant labor issues, and I can say with confidence that a discussion on enhancing revenues will not take place without giving serious consideration to addressing the cost side of the equation first.”

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) represents the 13th Senate District, which covers portions of Dodge, Jefferson, Waukesha, Washington, Dane, and Columbia counties.