What is the Rand Formula and Why it Matters to You – Electrical Workers Local 993
Categories: BC, IBEW, Local 993
Posted on April 17, 2025 7:33 pm
For nearly 80 years, the Rand Formula has helped protect Canadian workers. It says that everyone covered by a union agreement should contribute to the union that works on their behalf. If you get the better wages, benefits, and job protection that the union wins, then you help support the effort. No free rides.
That’s how unions stay strong and get results for all workers.
But now, some people are trying to change that.
They are pushing for “right-to-work” laws. These laws would let people take the benefits of union work without helping pay for it. That might sound fair on the surface, but it weakens unions and makes it harder for them to stand up for workers.
In over 25 U.S. states that passed right-to-work laws, here’s what happened:
- Union membership dropped
- Wages fell
- Benefits were reduced
- Workplaces became more dangerous
- Profits for big companies went up
Right-to-work laws sound like they offer more freedom. But what they really do is take power away from workers and give it to employers. Without enough support, unions can’t fight back when wages are cut, jobs are lost, or safety is ignored.
Some people say union dues take away freedom. But the truth is, you can’t protect your job, your pay, or your future without the resources to do it.
Staying silent when these laws are being pushed is not enough. We need to speak out clearly and protect what generations of workers fought to build.
If you believe in standing up for yourself, then stand up for your wages, your safety, and your rights by supporting your union.
We cannot let what happened in the U.S. happen here.
