Letter: Unions necessary to balance power held by employers

Monday, May 17, 1999 | 12:54 p.m.

I have never seen a letter to the editor of either Las Vegas paper that showed unions in a favorable light, nor do I expect this to be printed as the first. However, the letter by Jan Storm in the May 12 Sun expressed the same line we always hear: "We are a right to work state," and, "Give Las Vegans a right to choose or look for work elsewhere."

Maybe you have a right to choose, but let me explain something. The Venetian is in the business of making a lot of money. You are overhead. If they don't have to give you a good wage and benefits, they will make more money.

The Venetian owners have said the sidewalks in front are private property where free speech is not permitted. Do you believe they are giving a good wage because they are just nice people?

A union creates a balance of power; that's why you need one. If the Venetian did not pay well, you'd go work for a union casino. If nobody chose unions, the casinos would pay you the least amount they could.

I am a retired union man from another state, living here like a king because of the benefits my union helped to provide. But do as you wish. Eliminate the union power base if it makes you happy. Maybe I'll flip you a buck tip some day to match your hourly pay.

JERRY BITTS