North Carolina teacher union ranked among weakest in US, report finds

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- A new national report ranks North Carolina's teacher union strength near the bottom in the country.

The study from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute places North Carolina 48th nationally out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia, putting it in one of the weakest tiers for teacher union influence.

The report also highlights a sharp decline in membership over the past decade.

Since 2012, the share of North Carolina teachers who belong to a union or similar organization has dropped significantly. falling from 49% to 21%, one of the steepest declines in the nation.

Only one state saw a larger drop in that time period, according to the findings.

Researchers say the decline reflects a broader national trend, with teacher union membership decreasing in most states in recent years.

In North Carolina, the largest educator group is the North Carolina Association of Educators, which now reports about 27,000 members statewide.

The Fordham Institute report evaluates union strength using several factors, including membership levels, political involvement, state labor laws and perceived influence.

North Carolina law also limits union power compared to other states. Public sector employees are not allowed to collectively bargain or strike, which can affect overall union influence.