AFSCME 13 is facing a growing crisis in Pennsylvania as its own members are walking away at record rates. In February alone, more than 100 public employees opted out, making it clear that workers are fed up with the union’s leadership and priorities. Instead of staying trapped in a system that takes their money and offers little in return, these employees have exercised their right to stop paying dues.
For years, AFSCME 13 has relied on worker apathy to maintain its grip, assuming that public employees wouldn’t take the time to research their rights or challenge the status quo. But that strategy is falling apart as more employees learn the truth: membership is optional, and no one can be forced to pay union dues as a condition of their job. The Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision made this clear, yet unions like AFSCME 13 continue to act as though workers have no other choice.
The reality is sinking in, and it’s hitting AFSCME 13 hard. Public employees are seeing their union dues—often more than $900 per year—being funneled into politics, bloated salaries for union executives, and causes that don’t reflect their values. Meanwhile, workplace conditions and contract negotiations remain stagnant, leaving members questioning what they’re paying for.
A major reason for the recent surge in opt-outs is the extensive outreach conducted by the Freedom Foundation. In 2025 alone, the Freedom Foundation has ramped up its efforts to inform AFSCME 13 members about their rights, ensuring they understand they are not required to stay in the union or continue paying dues. As part of this campaign, more than 45,000 pieces of mail have been sent directly to AFSCME 13 members, providing them with clear information on how to opt out.
This wave of opt-outs in February didn’t happen in isolation. Thanks to the Freedom Foundation’s tireless work, Pennsylvania public employees are finally getting the facts that union leadership doesn’t want them to know. Once they understand their rights, opting out becomes an easy decision.
If February’s numbers are any indication, AFSCME 13’s problems are only going to get worse. Workers are rejecting union control, and as more people realize they don’t need AFSCME 13 to advocate for themselves, the opt-out trend will only accelerate.
