LANSING, Mich. (AP) - The Republican-led Michigan House has approved a contentious right-to-work bill limiting unions' strength.

The measure approved Tuesday morning deals with public-sector workers. Another bill focusing on the private sector was approved last week, when the Senate OK'd both bills.

When final versions have cleared the House, they'll go to GOP Gov. Rick Snyder for his expected signature as early as Wednesday.

Passage followed numerous challenges and changes sought by Democrats as well as raucous protests inside and outside the Capitol from pro-union demonstrators. Thousands descended upon downtown Lansing to rally against the legislation that prohibits requiring nonunion employees to financially support unions at their workplace.

Backers say a right-to-work law would bring more jobs to Michigan and give workers freedom. Critics say it would drive down wages and benefits.

Copyright © 2012 Associated Press

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LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Protesters are packing the Michigan state Capitol in Lansing, chanting and stomping their feet as lawmakers prepare to take final votes on right-to-work legislation.

A group of about 20 state troopers is blocking the Senate chamber.

Thousands of union members are rallying nearby, to protest legislation that would prevent workers from being required to pay dues to a union as a condition of employment.

Copyright © 2012 Associated Press

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LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Several thousand union members have gathered for a march to the Michigan state Capitol to protest so-called right-to-work legislation.

The crowd includes autoworkers, machinists and others.

Republican lawmakers quickly moved legislation through the House and Senate in a single day last week, and state lawmakers will now be working toward final passage.

If the law passes, non-union employees in Michigan could not be required to pay union dues for negotiating contracts and other services.

Copyright © 2012 Associated Press