right-to-work law


noun

a state law making it illegal to refuse employment to a person for the sole reason that he or she is not a union member.

Origin of right-to-work law

An Americanism dating back to 1955–60

Cultural definitions for right-to-work laws

right-to-work laws

Laws that make it illegal to require workers to join labor unions as a condition of employment. Right-to-work laws are opposed to the union shop.