Center for Union Facts in the Detroit News

Our own Rick Berman writes in the Detroit News this morning:

2012 will be remembered as the year Big Labor went to war, taking on everything from Twinkies to state constitutions. But unfortunately for union bosses, they’ve got little more to show for their battle efforts than a handful of stinging electoral losses, some frustrated parents, perturbed politicians, stranded holiday travelers, and 18,500 more unemployed Americans.

Labor Developments in New Jersey

New Jersey’s split between private and public sector unions looks even wider today, as the state’s Civil Service Commission approves the disbanding of Camden’s police force so that it can be replaced by the county police. Meanwhile, State Senate President Stephen Sweeney has proposed that in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, the rebuilding efforts will be eligible for project labor agreements. In both cases, we see New Jersey’s Democratic politicians—looking to both get the support of labor and save the state from a fiscal crisis—are willing to sacrifice public employees over their private sector counterparts. It also doesn’t help that Governor Chris Christie, facing re-election (and a likely opponent in Sweeney) has already been endorsed by a large construction union.

California SEIU Member Demands Union Transparency

Mariam Noujaim, member of the powerful California public sector union SEIU Local 1000, has once again demanded to see more details about the union’s expenses. Noujaim believes there may be waste in the budget that can be cut, making union dues more affordable for members.