IN Senate passes right to work

INDIANAPOLIS (AP/ WANE) - The Indiana Senate has voted to approve the right to work bill that has prompted the legislative boycotts by House Democrats.

The Republican-dominated Senate voted 28-22 in favor of the proposal Monday evening. The bill prohibits companies and unions from agreeing to contracts that require workers who aren't union members to pay representation fees.

Republican Sen. Carlin Yoder of Middlebury argued the bill not only would help attract business to Indiana but also give workers freedom to decide what to do with their money.

Democratic Sen. Vi Simpson of Bloomington questioned whether the law was needed. She said good companies such as Honda and Toyota have expanded in Indiana in recent years without it.

Nine Republicans joined all 13 Democratic senators in voting against the bill.

Afterward, Indiana Republican Party Chairman Eric Holcomb said, "I commend Senator David Long and our republican-led Senate for passing right to work. In the face of constant attacks, they have stood strong in support of their fellow Hoosiers."