House committee hears hours of testimony on HB 238, bill to bar required union membership; executive session set for Jan. 28

The New Hampshire House Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Committee heard testimony for more than eight hours on House Bill 238 FN, a proposal that would prohibit collective bargaining agreements from requiring employees to join or contribute to a labor union.

Representative Richard Glasson introduced the measure on behalf of its sponsor, saying HB 238 “would end forced union membership as a condition of employment.” The committee heard more than 50 people in favor and opposed during the public hearing, and the chair announced the panel will hold executive session on the bill on Jan. 28 to consider next steps.

Why it matters: Supporters say the bill would give employees a legal choice about whether to pay or belong to a union and make the state more attractive to employers. Opponents say the measure would weaken unions that negotiate wages, retirement and training programs that supporters say raise living standards and workplace safety.

What supporters told the committee - Proponents included industry groups and small-business advocates. John Reynolds, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business in New Hampshire, told the committee that “right to work is about allowing small business owners and their employees to determine their own future,” and cited studies and surveys he said showed business and job growth tied to right-to-work policies. - Greg Moore of Americans for Prosperity argued the bill would protect employees who object to an employer or union’s positions: “I had 1 of my employees come in…