Illinois now recognizes, as a fundamental right, the right to organize and to bargain collectively through representatives of their own choosing. It will be important for employers to make it clear that any meetings that discuss political (including any union issues) or religious matters are voluntary.Union membership was clearly indicated for approximately 23 percent of the sampled construction workers. Union status was unknown for the remaining. The law will take effect in January. It forbids employers from disciplining or penalizing workers who don't participate in meetings. Florida is one of few states that has the right to join a union enshrined in the state constitution, alongside New York, Missouri and Illinois. According to the Supreme Court, a union can't force an employee to pay the union dues required for union membership. A WLRN investigation begins to reveal the scope of SB 256, a sweeping antiunion law passed in 2023. Your Right to Form a Union.