Pennsylvania sees 70 percent increase in union opt-outs

Ryan Horan
November 14, 2024

October marked a turning point for Pennsylvania public employees choosing to opt out of union membership, with the Freedom Foundation reporting a 70 percent increase in opt-outs over the monthly average — a true high point for 2024. So far this year, the Freedom Foundation’ outreach efforts have cost PA’s government unions over $900,000. This surge isn’t just numbers; it’s a strong signal that public employees are increasingly taking charge of how their money is used and what values they want to support.

Leading the wave of opt-outs were three major unions — AFSCME 13, PSEA and SEIU 32BJ. Members from across Pennsylvania — state workers, educators and service employees alike — are recognizing that union membership isn’t mandatory.

Many are opting instead to make decisions based on their personal values and financial priorities.

The reasons behind this trend are straightforward. Public employees are realizing that they have the right to choose. Resources like OptOutToday.com make it easy for employees to understand the process and act on it confidently.

For most, it’s not just about keeping more of their paycheck; it’s about taking ownership of their future.

- Outreach
, Pennsylvania

Ryan Horan

Outreach Coordinator

Ryan graduated from Franklin and Marshall College with a bachelor’s degree in government and Public Policy. He was a member of the Men’s Soccer team, which made NCAA playoffs every year of his collegiate career. Ryan was also a member of the Diplomat Christian Fellowship and volunteered at the Water Street Mission in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. While in college, he interned at the Republic Committee of Lancaster County and was able to see firsthand the integral parts the committee had to offer candidates who were running for office. Ryan joined the Freedom Foundation in the summer of 2020 as an intern for Pennsylvania Outreach team. He is now the Pennsylvania Outreach Coordinator after he graduated F&M in 2021. Ryan is from Norwell, Massachusetts and loves the different outdoor activities the East Coast has to offer. He spends his free time fishing, boating, playing soccer and exploring the city of Boston.