Auto workers can still resign from UAW and work during strike

With a midnight Thursday deadline approaching for a United Auto Workers strike, union members who are thinking about crossing the picket line should plan carefully, according to an organization that supports right-to-work laws.

Union members who report to work during a strike are subject to union fines, the National Right to Work Legal Foundation announced in a public notice released Sept. 12.

The organization advises union members who wish to stay on the job during a strike to resign at least a day before they return to work.

“Union officials cannot fine or discipline nonmembers for crossing a picket line and working during a strike,” it adds.

National Right to Work suggests sending a letter of resignation through certified mail, with a return receipt requested.

Michigan’s 2012 right-to-work law is still in effect until the current Legislature ends its term.

This means UAW members in Michigan can still resign their membership and avoid any fines for working during a strike. They can also save on union dues.