Kettle introduces 'right to work' bill

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - A local lawmaker has introduced a piece of legislature that would make joining the teachers union in the state optional.

Senator Nicholas D. Kettle, (R-Dist. 21, Coventry, Foster, Scituate), says his "Right to Work" bill would make membership and dues a choice for Rhode Island teachers.

Under the current state law, all teachers are required to join the teachers union, which Kettle added results in millions of dollars in dues collected that could be put toward other necessities.

“Teachers in Rhode Island deserve a choice,” Kettle said.  “ The National Education Association uses questionable tactics when dealing with our legislature...harming the reputation of many fine teachers and placing our children at the bottom of our priority list."

Kettle's proposed bill wouldn't make union membership mandatory and would ultimately present school districts throughout the state with the opportunity to hire and then retain teachers based on their performance.

The "Right to Work" bill will create a reward system, Kettle continued, rather than staying with the current system forcing teachers to be part of the union.

"The current union membership practices simply do not support excellence in education," Kettle added.