01:00 AM EDT on Tuesday, June 14, 2005

The impending vote on unionization of day-care workers is another sign of the absolute power and strength that organized labor wields in decision-making in the State of Rhode Island.

Once again, instead of enacting legislation that is focused on improving the state and increasing the potential for developing a solid business environment, time is being spent (and in my opinion, wasted) on an issue which will ultimately only contribute to the coffers of the unions and ultimately cost the taxpayers a hefty amount for health care and pensions, and who knows what else. Actions of this type are very, very sad -- but continue to occur.

In my opinion, if this legislation is passed, the Rhode Island legislature will have put one more nail in the proverbial coffin. I strongly urge members to vote against this bill.

JOHN HAZEN WHITE Jr.

Cranston

The writer is president of Taco Inc.