Republicans in the North Carolina Senate introduced a bill to strengthen the state’s status as a Right-to-Work state by enshrining it in the state constitution.
Since the 1940s, North Carolina has been recognized as a Right-to-Work state by state law. Senate Bill 1082 puts a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot, solidifying that status. The amendment would recognize that a citizen’s right to work “must be protected and maintained free from undue restraints and coercion.”
I sponsored the bill along with Sens. Carl Ford (R-Rowan) and Ted Alexander (R-Cleveland).
“While North Carolina is a strong Right to Work state, we’re seeing some unions bully and strong-arm folks into doing their bidding,” Ford said. “No one should feel coerced into joining a union or other organization to earn a living.”
Alexander said, “North Carolina’s thriving business climate hinges on our talented workforce and our citizens’ chance to find meaningful employment. If we want to see our state thrive, we must protect our citizens’ right to work.”
Guaranteeing the right to work in our state’s constitution cements our status as the best state in which to live, work, and raise a family. This constitutional amendment ensures that our citizens can provide for themselves and their families without feeling unduly pressured by unions.
Sen. Steve Jarvis represents Davidson and Davie counties in the North Carolina Senate. He is serving his third term. Jarvis previously served one term in the North Carolina House of Representatives and was a Davidson County commissioner.
