http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/rtw-hardhats-s5.jpgApproval in GOP-controlled Assembly likely. Bill is another blow to unions in Wisconsin. Debate helps Walker curry favor with right-wing funding sources as he campaigns for President while distracting from his $2.2 billion budget deficit and lagging state economy.

MADISON - The Wisconsin state Senate passed the so-called "right to work" (RTW) bill (SB-44) on Wednesday, sending it for likely approval to the GOP-controlled state Assembly.

The proposal, which would let workers opt out of paying fair share union dues, is another blow to unions in Wisconsin after Gov. Scott Walker in 2011 helped pass a bill curtailing the rights of the state's public sector unions.

The 2011 fight catapulted Walker to the national stage and has contributed to his support in polls of the potential 2016 presidential race. There is little doubt that Walker is using this issue to curry favor with right-wing funding sources and distract from his $2.2 billion budget deficit and a state economy that lags behind most of the nation.

Across the nation, Republicans are aiming to undercut unions' electoral strength, as they typically vote and organize heavily in favor of Democrats.

Thousands of protesters circled the Wisconsin state capitol and interrupted Senate floor action on Wednesday to register their displeasure with the new development, a presence reminiscent of the heavy opposition Walker faced in 2011 over the union bill, according to local media reports.

According to State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay):

“Senate Republicans rushed through controversial RTW legislation that will cost Wisconsin families on average $5,000 a year in lost wages, eliminate critical job training programs and lead to more workplace injuries and deaths.

"RTW is wrong for Wisconsin families, infringes on the freedom of employers to run their businesses as they see fit and does nothing to fix Governor Walker’s $2.2 billion deficit.

"Despite promises from Governor Walker and Senate Republicans, Wisconsin continues to fall behind our neighbors and a majority of the nation for jobs and wages because of their failed policies. Under RTW the quality of life for Wisconsin families will only get worse.”