The union had feared that two sets of work rules would divide its membership and weaken the union.

Both parents and the union also fear creeping privatization.

Although teachers would not be directly affected by the takeover plan, the union feared any denial of tenure protection could ultimately spread to its members.

"The union fears we will lose due process," he said.

Those unions wanted to develop influence with Republicans and feared that the Democrats had been taking labor for granted.

This would be on top of $850 million to $950 million in state agency reductions, which the unions fear will affect them, too.

The union fears that time will be on the employer's side.

The union fears that jobs will be lost and patient services reduced if the hospital is turned over to private owners.

Both the union and the utilities fear deregulation will mean competition and layoffs.

British Telecom is planning more job cuts that could lead to the loss of 80,000 staff over five years, unions fear.