The rise of the service sector: The service sector has grown rapidly in recent decades, but these jobs are often less unionized than manufacturing jobs. This has further eroded union membership.
Anti-union legislation: Both the federal government and many states have passed laws that have made it more difficult for unions to organize and bargain collectively. This has made unions weaker and less effective, which has led to a decline in membership.
Global competition: The rise of global competition has put pressure on American companies to reduce costs, which has led to job losses and wage freezes. This has made unions less appealing to workers, as they are often seen as a way to protect jobs and wages.
Eroding labor rights: The erosion of labor rights in the United States has also contributed to the decline in union membership. This erosion includes the weakening of the National Labor Relations Act, the rise of right-to-work laws, and the decline in the enforcement of labor laws.