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Wisconsin Set To Become 25th 'Right-To-Work' State

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker speaks at the American Action Forum January 30, 2015 in Washington, D.C. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker speaks at the American Action Forum January 30, 2015 in Washington, D.C. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The Wisconsin Senate passed passed a “right-to-work” bill last night, after about eight hours of debate, and thousands of protesters outside.

The measure prohibits requiring people to join unions or pay union dues, effectively weakening unions and making it more difficult to form unions.

The majority-Republican assembly is expected to pass the bill next week, making Wisconsin the 25th right to work state. It follows similar legislation in Indiana and Michigan.

Governor Scott Walker is a potential Republican presidential candidate and he has a track record of taking on unions in his state. Four years ago, he eliminated collective bargaining rights for public-sector unions, setting off a firestorm of protests.

Ann-Elise Henzl from Here & Now contributing station WUWM in Milwaukee joins host Meghna Chakrabarti with details.

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