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right-to-work law

American  
[rahyt-tuh-wurk law] / ˈraɪt təˈwɜrk ˌlɔ /

noun

  1. a state law making it illegal to refuse employment to a person for the sole reason that they are not a union member.


Etymology

Origin of right-to-work law

An Americanism dating back to 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Utah has a top tax rate of only 4.55% on personal and corporate income, no estate tax, a rock-bottom minimum wage of $7.25 an hour and a right-to-work law.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2025

“Being a right-to-work law state makes us more competitive nationally, and especially with our neighboring states who also have these laws,” said Wendy Block of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 14, 2023

The remainder are still represented by the union under the Texas right-to-work law.

From Reuters • Oct. 26, 2021

He signed a right-to-work law, banned lobbyist gifts to state employees, and reduced regulatory requirements by almost a third.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2018

Workers along the Strip and Las Vegas’ greater tourist industry are well-organized, in spite of the state’s right-to-work law.

From Slate • Oct. 15, 2015

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