by Vermont State Treasurer Michael Pieciak As Vermont’s State Treasurer, I work every day to empower hard-working Vermonters in their financial lives. This Labor Day, in honor of workers’ contributions and the labor movement’s impact, I want to speak directly to Vermonters about Proposition 3, a proposed constitutional amendment to permanently protect the rights of Vermont workers and ensure that all Vermont workers have the right to unionize.
Proposition 3 would shield Vermont labor rights from any future political action at the federal or state level, ensuring that every Vermont worker can negotiate for good pay and a decent work experience.
Earlier this year, I testified in favor of Proposition 3 and the legislature unanimously approved the measure. To amend Vermont’s Constitution, it must be approved again by the legislature in the upcoming biennium before it can be put to a vote by the public in a General Election. Vermonters will likely see Proposition 3 on the ballot in the coming years.
Research consistently shows that strong labor rights and union membership lead to better outcomes for workers, including higher wages, improved work conditions, and more comprehensive benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and paid leave. Unions can also offer valuable job training and career development opportunities, helping employees advance their careers and stay competitive in the job market. Furthermore, unions can provide crucial legal support to members who might otherwise struggle to protect their own rights in court.
Vermont’s public-sector unions are pivotal in supporting the financial security of our public-school teachers, state employees, and municipal workers—individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving our communities. My office manages Vermont’s public pension system, which exemplifies the benefits of unionized labor. Protected by unions, pensions not only ensure retirement security for public workers but are also key tools for recruitment and retention. Vermonters who retire with a pension have substantially greater income security in retirement, which supports our state’s economy. Every dollar invested by Vermont taxpayers in our state pension plans generates nearly four dollars of total economic activity statewide.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, union membership among public sector workers (32.5%) is significantly higher than that of private sector employees (6%). Proposition 3 would strengthen union membership across all sectors and demographics, ensuring that all Vermont workers have the right to collectively bargain for a fair and decent livelihood.
Vermont is already a national leader in promoting responsible business practices. Per capita, our state has the most registered B Corporations—for-profit businesses certified for meeting rigorous standards in environmental and social responsibility. This includes paying workers a fair wage or a collectively bargained wage. Passing Proposition 3 would further align Vermont’s economy with our values.
On this Labor Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of labor and fairness by supporting Proposition 3. As Treasurer, I am proud to endorse this measure, which aligns with our Office’s mission to foster a stronger and more equitable Vermont economy for all.