Big Labor Still Thrives in RI

Business blog 24/7
Wall St recently ranked Rhode Island the fifth strongest
union state in the nation. The report used data from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics and factored in political atmosphere, industry composition and labor
laws not just strictly union membership numbers.

 

 

Nearly two-thirds of all Ocean State public sector
workers belonged to a union. The study also noted that labor initiatives are a
priority for Rhode Island lawmakers potentially limiting new employment
opportunities. 24/7 Wall St concluded by noting the state’s then current 9.5%
unemployment rate was second only to Nevada.

 

 

The only states with stronger union presences than
Rhode Islands were Washington, Hawaii, Alaska and New York.

 

 

·
Percentage
of Rhode Island Workers in a Union: 16.9%

 

 

·
Union
Workers: 77, 367 (18^th in nation)

 

 

·
10
Year Change in Union Membership: -7.9% (25^th Highest)

 

 

·
Total
Employment 2013: 458, 494 (8^th Lowest)

 

 

 

 

 

To read the full report visit 24/7
Wall Street Blog.