Right to Unionize, Bargain Could Be Enshrined in California (1)

California voters could enshrine the right to unionize and collectively bargain in the state Constitution under a proposed amendment lawmakers advanced Thursday.

Supporters say the measure (SCA 7) would be a backstop against any future efforts to curb the power of labor unions in California and potentially bolster efforts by some workers to organize in industries where unions are less common. But business groups argue the measure is unnecessary in a state where Democratic supermajorities have aggressively advanced pro-labor policies in recent years.

The proposal comes as Democrats watch major federal legislation on workers rights sputter in a ...