What are the pros and cons of quitting the union?
If you are a religious objector, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that none of your money will go to the union at all, but you will have to donate an amount equal to full union dues to a union-approved charity. If you become an agency fee payer, you’ll receive about 1/3 of your union dues back each year. You’ll also have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re doing what, in your opinion, is the right thing to do. Your union is still required to represent you and your interests (negotiations, grievances, etc.), and the hundreds of dollars a year that you’ll continue to pay in “agency fees” are payment for these services and representation. There are costs associated with leaving the union, however. You will not be allowed to hold union office. You will not have any voting rights in the union – probably not even on your own contract! You will lose the union’s liability coverage should you ever get sued, and if you need legal representation, the union will not pay for it.
