Indiana State Rep: Right-to-Work About Jobs

GOP state Rep. Jerry Torr says a bill to make Indiana a right-to-work state – which has been greeted by massive protests and fleeing Democrats, similar to events in Wisconsin – is about new jobs, won’t cost the state any money, and unlike the Badger State legislation, is directed at private employees.

Torr also told Fox News’ Greta Van Susteren he believes the bill, which he sponsored, is not a union buster – and actually would benefit organized labor.

“As you probably know, there are 22 right-to-work states. A right-to-work law merely means that an employee can't be forced to pay union dues as a condition of employment,” Torr said. “I believe, personally, it actually strengthens the union, as do many union members who support the bill, because it makes the union leadership more responsive to the rank-and-file members.

“If the union leadership knows that members don't have to pay dues … they have to keep the members happy,” he added. “When you have a chance to explain it to union members, some of them are supportive. But the main reason I'm pursuing this legislation is because we know it's the one thing we can do in Indiana that doesn't cost us anything that will bring jobs to Indiana. And with 9.5 percent unemployment, that's the number one thing constituents are telling us – they want us to … bring jobs to Indiana.”

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