Michigan - Unions Lose Right-to-Work Challenge - NYTimes.com The state appeals court ruled 2 to 1 on Thursday that the state's right-to-work law applies to 35,000 unionized state employees, rejecting a lawsuit filed by labor unions. The measure went to court after questions were raised because the Michigan Civil Service Commission, which sets compensation for state employees, has separate powers under the state Constitution. The law prohibits forcing public and private workers to pay union dues or fees.