Union members by the hundreds filed into the state Capitol on Monday morning as a group of Senate lawmakers discussed a proposed constitutional amendment that would make it harder for unions to organize. Critics of the bill say it would lower wages and cut benefits for middle-class families. Supporters say it would help businesses create new jobs.

Over the chants of hundreds of union members opposing the bill, the committee passed a measure that would put the right to work issue on Minnesota's ballot in November. 23 states have enacted similar laws that make union membership voluntary, rather than compulsory.

About 60 people attended a school board meeting Monday night, and those who spoke had nothing good to say. Opponents of the current policy say the district would just be replacing one vague policy with another and also said the word "controversial" could stigmatize gay and lesbian students. Critics on the other side said changing the policy would open the door to "pro-homosexual teaching."

The constitutional amendment would not allow contracts to require employees to join unions or pay dues. Sen. Dave Thompson of Lakeville continues to stress the measure will not impact collective bargaining in Minnesota.