Connecticut has long been plagued by fiscal turmoil, an exodus of businesses and government systems swollen by unsustainable promises. But today, a new chapter is being written — one in which public employees are standing up, speaking out and opting out.
With nearly 70 percent of government workers bound by collective bargaining agreements, Connecticut holds the distinction of having the most heavily unionized public-sector workforce in the nation. This has given government unions unchecked power to shape policy, dictate pay and dominate political decisions.
But the tide is turning. Thanks to the Freedom Foundation’s expanded efforts — in addition to growing dissatisfaction among workers — government union membership in Connecticut is on the decline.
And with this year’s bold and strategic outreach campaign, the Freedom Foundation isn’t just making waves in the state. It’s beginning to redefine the story for Connecticut’s public employees.
We’re already seeing unprecedented success. As of June, over 400 Connecticut public employees have opted out of union membership and dues payments — more than ever before — and the year isn’t even halfway over.
The record-breaking pace is the result of the Freedom Foundation’s tireless preparation and dynamic new outreach campaign launched in 2025.
First, we hit the ground running with mail designed to help the state’s public employees see just how much money was leaving their paychecks needlessly. Thousands of households across Connecticut received clear, timely and engaging messages about how much they could save annually in union dues and explaining their constitutional right to opt out.
Many took action — led the way by state and local government employees represented against their will by AFSCME Council 4 and SEIU 1199NE.
And the Freedom Foundation’s outreach hasn’t stopped there. Thousands of Connecticut public employees are now receiving the message of freedom directly in their email inboxes as well.
In June, we’re even taking to the highways. A bold new billboard will go up on I-84 in Hartford, carrying a clear message: “Opt Out of Union Dues!”
It’s just one more way we’re turning up the heat heading into the summer.
Looking ahead, the Freedom Foundation is preparing for Connecticut’s most impactful canvassing effort yet. Our elite canvassing team will be hitting the ground, knocking on doors and visiting neighborhoods where union members live and work.
This kind of personal, face-to-face engagement is key to helping more workers understand their rights and take action.
None of this would be possible without the relationships we’ve built with Connecticut public employees themselves, earning trust and working with local activists—especially teachers—who are eager to take back their freedom from corrupt union bosses.
That grassroots power is what fuels our mission.
At the core of the Freedom Foundation’s campaign is a simple but profound principle — public employees deserve freedom. They deserve to know they have a choice.
They shouldn’t be forced to fund political agendas they don’t support. They deserve to keep more of their paycheck — and to be treated as individuals, not pawns in a political game.
Every opt-out in Connecticut represents more than just a number. It’s a financial victory, a personal stand and a move toward a more accountable, worker-first system.
And the stories behind these decisions are just beginning to be told.
If you’re still paying union dues and wondering if there’s a way out, there is.
You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
Already opted out? Help a colleague take the same step. No matter where you are in your journey, we’re ready to support you. Reach out today. We’d be honored to stand with you.
