Why collective bargaining still works

Marick Masters, professor of management at Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business and director of Labor@Wayne, opined about the benefits of collective bargaining writing that it provides workers with a genuine voice. "Through collective bargaining, employees enjoy the protected right to say "No" to what is offered. A meaningful voice comes with the right of refusal and opportunity to exert influence or pressure. Otherwise, one side is ultimately quite at the mercy of the other." Regarding the recent auto talks, Masters wrote: "The Detroit Three and UAW deserve credit for the substance of the agreements reached. They pledged the investment of billions of dollars into domestic production, which promotes U.S. auto manufacturing jobs. They closed the gap between the tiers, raised wages, and promised to share profits, which helps to build the middle class."

Detroit Free Press

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