Indiana is now a right-to-work state, thanks to support from state legislators and Gov. Mitch Daniels, who signed the bill into law.
Under right-to-work laws, companies can no longer negotiate a contract with a union that requires non-members to pay fees for representation. The House earlier passed the measure 54-44.
Daniels and other Republican supporters characterized the measure as needed for Indiana to attract jobs.
“Indiana will improve still further its recently earned reputation as one of America’s best places to do business, and we will see more jobs and opportunity for our young people and for all those looking for a better life,” the governor said in a statement released by his office.
After the Senate vote, the protesters poured out of the Statehouse to join a rally on the Statehouse lawn and a march to Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Super Bowl will be held Sunday.
