Backed by billionaires who think the state’s construction workers earn too much money, they have 180 days to collect 252,523 signatures – 3 percent of the state’s voting population – to put prevailing wage repeal legislation before the Michigan Legislature for a vote. They’re trying to go around a likely veto by Gov. Rick Snyder, who has said he doesn’t support prevailing wage repeal. But Snyder would not be able to exercise a veto under this plan.

Who knows what lies the paid signature gatherers are going to spout to get people to sign: “more money for schools” or “save money for Michigan taxpayers” are likely to be heard. The truth is, there’s ample real-world and academic evidence that prevailing wage repeal won’t save taxpayers a dime, but will cost the state’s construction industry dearly in the long run.

If you want lower wages, less-safe jobsites, increased competition from out-of-state contractors, a system of poorly trained apprentices, and a generally screwed-up construction industry that joins the rest of our economy’s race to the bottom, then go ahead and sign the petition. 

But if you want a Michigan construction industry that values higher wages, safety, and training – DECLINE TO SIGN THE PETITION, AND URGE YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO DO THE SAME!